The police force, a cornerstone of modern society, has evolved significantly since its formal inception in the early 19th century with the establishment of London’s Metropolitan Police in 1829. Over time, various slang terms have emerged to refer to law enforcement officers. One such popular term, particularly in certain regions, is “12.” But Why Are Police Called 12?
This article delves into the intriguing question of why “12” has become a slang term for police, particularly focusing on its usage in the Southern United States, especially Atlanta, Georgia, and its connection to hip-hop culture. We will explore the potential origins of this term and its connotations in contemporary language.
Decoding “12”: What Does It Really Mean?
“12” is predominantly recognized as a slang term for police officers, most notably within Atlanta, Georgia, and the broader Southern United States. The term’s usage is nuanced; it can be employed in contexts ranging from derogatory and dismissive to neutral or even casual. Understanding the context is crucial when interpreting the meaning of “12.” It’s a term that has permeated popular culture, particularly through music and movies, becoming a recognizable, albeit informal, way to refer to the police.
Unraveling the Mystery: The Origins of “12” as Police Slang
While the exact genesis of “12” as a moniker for police remains somewhat shrouded in mystery, several compelling theories attempt to explain its emergence. Let’s examine the most prominent explanations:
The 10-Code Connection: “10-12” Meaning “Stand By”
One popular theory posits that “12” is derived from the police radio ten-code “10-12.” In law enforcement radio communication, ten-codes are shorthand signals used for brevity and clarity. The code “10-12” traditionally means “visitor(s) present” or “stand by.” However, some interpretations, particularly within the context of slang origins, suggest “10-12” was understood or perhaps misinterpreted in some regions to simply mean “police presence” or “wait.”
During the 1960s and 70s, when ten-codes were widely adopted across police departments in the United States, it’s plausible that “12” was extracted from “10-12” as a quicker, slangier way to signal the presence of law enforcement. This theory suggests that “12” became a shorthand warning, a quick way to alert others of approaching police.
The ACAB Abbreviation and 1312 Numerology
Another, more controversial theory links “12” to the acronym ACAB, which stands for “All Cops Are Bastards.” This anti-police slogan, while not universally embraced, has gained traction in certain subcultures. Numerology, assigning numbers to letters, provides a potential bridge to “12.” In this system, A=1, C=3, and B=2. Thus, ACAB can be represented numerically as 1312.
The theory suggests that “1312,” perceived as cumbersome, was further shortened to simply “12.” This explanation positions “12” as a coded, somewhat subversive term, rooted in anti-authority sentiment. While this theory is less about radio codes and more about symbolic representation, it provides another possible pathway for the slang’s development.
The Influence of “Adam-12” TV Show
A third compelling theory credits the popular police procedural television show, Adam-12. Premiering in 1968 and airing until 1975, Adam-12 followed the daily routines of two Los Angeles Police Department officers patrolling in their patrol unit designated “1-Adam-12.” The show was highly influential in shaping public perception of police work and was widely watched across the United States.
The constant repetition of “Adam-12” in the show’s title and dialogue could have ingrained “12” in the public consciousness as a readily identifiable symbol for police. Similar to how “5-0” (from Hawaii Five-O) became synonymous with police, “12” from Adam-12 could have, in this theory, taken root as slang, particularly as a more concise and less formal alternative.
Why is “12” Used as Slang for Police?
Regardless of its precise origin, the reasons for the continued use of “12” as slang for police are multifaceted:
- Warning and Alert: Primarily, “12” serves as a discreet way to warn others about the presence of police. This can be for various reasons, not always related to illegal activity, but often simply to avoid interaction.
- Pop Culture Popularization: Music, movies, and television shows have played a significant role in popularizing “12.” For example, the term is famously used in the 1995 comedy film Friday, where Ice Cube’s character employs “12” to alert his friends about approaching police. This embedding in popular culture has normalized and spread the term.
When Did “12” Start Meaning Police?
The late 1960s and early 1970s appear to be the period when “12” began its ascent as slang for law enforcement. This timeline aligns with the popularity of both the ten-code system and the Adam-12 TV show. Once introduced, the term rapidly gained traction, permeating everyday language and solidifying its place in pop culture as a recognizable moniker for police.
Frequently Asked Questions About Police Slang “12”
- Where does the term “police” itself come from? The word “police” is derived from the Greek word “politeia,” meaning “citizenship” or “government,” and later evolved through French into its modern English form.
- Where did the concept of a professional police force originate? The modern concept of a professional, organized police force originated in the United Kingdom in the early 19th century.
- What was the name of the first modern police force? The Metropolitan Police, established in London in 1829, is considered the first modern police force.
- In summary, why are cops called “12”? “12” is used to discreetly alert people to the presence of law enforcement, often as a warning.
- When did “12” become slang for police? The term gained popularity in the late 1960s and early 1970s.
- Is calling the police “12” disrespectful? The connotation of “12” depends heavily on context and intent. It can be used disrespectfully, but also neutrally or even casually, particularly within certain communities.
Conclusion: “12” – A Slang Term Rooted in Mystery and Culture
The term “12” as slang for police is a fascinating example of how language evolves and adapts within different communities and subcultures. While its precise origin remains debated, the theories surrounding police radio codes, anti-authority slogans, and the Adam-12 TV show all offer plausible explanations. Ultimately, “12” serves as a testament to the dynamic nature of slang, its ability to convey meaning concisely, and its reflection of cultural attitudes towards law enforcement. Whether used as a warning, a casual term, or something more loaded, “12” is undeniably a recognized part of the lexicon when discussing police in contemporary English, particularly in specific regions and within certain groups.
