The police force, a cornerstone of modern society, has evolved significantly since its formal inception in the 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. Among these, “12” has gained considerable traction, particularly in certain regions. But why are police called 12? This article delves into the origins and meanings behind this intriguing slang term.
Deciphering “12”: What Does It Mean?
“12” is predominantly used as a slang term for police officers, especially within communities in Atlanta, Georgia, and increasingly across the Southern United States. The term’s connotation varies depending on the speaker and context. For some, it might carry negative undertones, serving as a dismissive or insulting label. Conversely, others might employ it neutrally, simply as an informal way to refer to the police, or even in a manner that is not intended to be disrespectful. Understanding the nuances of “12” requires exploring its potential origins and how it’s used in contemporary language.
Unraveling the Mystery: The Origins of “12”
While the exact genesis of “12” as a police slang term remains somewhat shrouded in speculation, several compelling theories attempt to explain its emergence.
One prominent theory links “12” to the police radio code “10-12”. In law enforcement radio communication, “10-codes” are shorthand signals used to convey messages quickly and efficiently. The code “10-12” traditionally means “visitor(s) present” or “stand by” or “wait”. It’s speculated that over time, the “12” from “10-12” was extracted and adopted as a standalone slang term to signify the police presence itself. This theory suggests that “12” might have initially been used within law enforcement circles before gradually spreading into public vernacular as a way to discreetly refer to officers, particularly when alerting others to their presence.
Another theory connects “12” to the anti-police acronym ACAB, which stands for “All Cops Are Bastards.” In this context, numbers are substituted for letters based on their position in the alphabet. A is the 1st letter, C is the 3rd, and B is the 2nd, hence ACAB becomes 1312. It’s proposed that “1312” was further shortened to simply “12” as a more concise slang term. This interpretation carries a more inherently critical and negative connotation, reflecting sentiments of distrust or antagonism towards law enforcement.
A less overtly negative, and perhaps more pop-culture driven theory, points to the popular 1968-1975 police television show Adam-12. This series followed the daily routines of two Los Angeles Police Department officers in their patrol unit, designated “1-Adam-12.” The show was highly influential in portraying police work in a realistic and procedural manner. It’s possible that the “12” from “Adam-12” became a colloquial shorthand for police, especially as the show gained cultural prominence during the late 1960s and early 1970s, coinciding with the period when “12” reportedly began to surface as slang. This theory is similar to how “5-0” (from Hawaii Five-O) also became a widely recognized slang term for police.
Why Use “12” to Refer to the Police?
Regardless of its precise origin, the adoption of “12” as a slang term for police serves several purposes:
- Warning and Alert: Primarily, “12” functions as a discreet way to alert others to the presence of law enforcement in an area. This can be used to warn people engaged in illicit activities or simply to make others aware of police presence for various reasons.
- Informal Communication: Slang terms often arise as informal and efficient ways to communicate within specific groups or subcultures. “12” provides a quick and easily understood label for police, particularly in casual conversation or settings where using the formal term “police” might be considered too direct or formal.
- Pop Culture Influence: The term “12” has been further popularized through its use in hip-hop music, movies, and television. Its incorporation into popular culture has broadened its reach and solidified its status as a recognizable slang term for police, even beyond the regions where it initially emerged. For example, the reference in the 1995 film Friday underscores its presence in popular media.
Timeline: When Did “12” Become Police Slang?
The term “12” began to circulate as a slang term for law enforcement in the late 1960s. This timeframe aligns with the popularity of the Adam-12 TV show and the period when 10-codes were in common use in police radio communication. The slang term quickly gained momentum, permeating various aspects of pop culture and becoming a widely recognized, albeit informal, way to refer to the police.
FAQs About “12” and Police Terminology
- Where does the term “police” originate? The word “police” traces back to the Greek term “politeia,” meaning “citizenship” or “government,” and later evolved through French into its modern English form.
- What is the historical origin of professional policing? The concept of a professional, organized police force emerged 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.
- Is calling police “12” disrespectful? The level of disrespect associated with “12” is subjective and context-dependent. While some might view it as derogatory, others use it neutrally or informally without intending offense. Its perception often depends on the speaker’s intent and the listener’s interpretation.
- Why is it important to understand slang terms for police? Understanding slang terms like “12” provides insights into cultural attitudes towards law enforcement and how language evolves within different communities. It also helps in interpreting communication in various social contexts.
Conclusion: “12” as a Cultural Marker for Police
“Why are police called 12?” The answer, while not definitively pinpointed to a single origin, likely stems from a confluence of factors, including police radio codes, potential coded language, and popular culture influences like the Adam-12 TV show. Regardless of its precise etymology, “12” serves as a prevalent slang term, particularly in regions like Atlanta, used to denote police presence, often with connotations of warning or informal communication. Understanding “12” offers a glimpse into the dynamic relationship between language, culture, and perceptions of law enforcement.
