Unpacking "67" In Slang: More Than Just A Number
In the ever-evolving landscape of online communication and youth culture, numbers often transcend their mathematical value, taking on hidden meanings and becoming integral parts of slang. One such number that has recently piqued curiosity is "67." Far from being a simple digit, "67" has emerged as a multifaceted slang term, its meaning shifting dramatically depending on the context, platform, and social group using it. From viral TikTok trends to gritty UK drill music, and even specific texting abbreviations, understanding "what 67 means in slang" requires a dive into its diverse origins and applications.
This article aims to unravel the intriguing uses of "67" across various digital and cultural platforms, providing a comprehensive guide to its surprising versatility. Whether you're trying to keep up with the latest internet lingo or simply curious about the nuances of modern slang, let's explore the many faces of "67."
The Viral Sensation: "6-7" on TikTok
Perhaps the most prominent recent appearance of "67" in slang comes from its explosion in popularity on social media platforms, particularly TikTok and Instagram Reels. Here, the phrase "6-7" has become synonymous with a viral trend, often accompanied by a specific rap song.
The Skrilla Song & LaMelo Ball Connection
The core of the "6-7" TikTok phenomenon originates from the drill rap song "Doot Doot" by artist Skrilla. The track features a recurring lyric, "6-7," which has become an instantly recognizable hook. This catchy phrase, combined with the song's beat drop, sparked a wave of creative content across social media.
One of the earliest and most significant associations for the "6-7" trend is with NBA basketball player LaMelo Ball. Given Ball's height of 6'7", the phrase perfectly aligned with his physical attributes, leading to numerous viral edits and videos featuring him, with Skrilla's song playing in the background. TikTokers would edit footage of Ball, making the "6-7" lyric a key moment in the meme format. This connection solidified "6-7" as a cultural reference point, particularly within sports and youth communities.
Beyond the LaMelo Ball connection, some theories suggest that the "6-7" lyric might reference 67th Street in Chicago, potentially linking it to Skrilla’s origins or the broader drill music scene's geographical ties. This adds another layer of contextual depth to the viral phrase, hinting at a more grounded, street-level origin before its internet fame.
"6-7" as Affirmation, Agreement, or "So-So"
While its origins are rooted in a rap song, the meaning of "6-7" on TikTok has diversified, taking on various interpretations depending on how users incorporate it into their content. One common use is as a term of approval or affirmation, similar to saying "yes" or "I agree." In this context, "67" can express intense agreement or endorsement, often used to signal that something is excellent or perfectly executed. It's a way for users to show strong positive sentiment towards a video, idea, or statement.
Interestingly, despite its use for affirmation, "6-7" can also carry a contrasting meaning: "so-so." This interpretation is sometimes accompanied by an up-and-down hand gesture, visually conveying a sense of mediocrity or indecision. This highlights the fluid nature of slang, where a single phrase can encompass seemingly contradictory meanings based on subtle cues like gestures or specific video contexts.
Furthermore, within the playful, meme-driven environment of TikTok, "6-7" has been playfully interpreted as a term for laughter, akin to "lol." This usage often appears in lip-dub videos where users apply the "6-7" lyric to everyday situations, such as getting a 67% test score, claiming the song plays in their head whenever they encounter the number. This demonstrates how the phrase has been detached from its original musical context and reappropriated for humorous, relatable content, reflecting the creativity and community-driven nature of digital language.
"67" in the UK Drill Scene
Shifting gears from viral internet trends, the term "67" holds a much more specific and often darker connotation within the United Kingdom's drill music scene. Here, "67" is not just a phrase but the name of a prominent and influential UK drill rap group.
The UK Drill Rap Group "67"
Originating from South London, the "67" group is primarily known for their raw, unfiltered portrayal of street life, gang culture, and violence through their music. Within this context, the number "67" directly refers to the group itself, and by extension, the lifestyle and themes they represent.
Their lyrics frequently delve into topics such as "drilling" and "skengs." For those unfamiliar with drill slang, "drilling" is a euphemism for committing violent acts, often involving "murdering people." "Skengs," on the other hand, is a slang term for a weapon, typically a gun or a knife. Therefore, when "67" is mentioned in the context of UK drill, it carries the weight of gang affiliation, street credibility, and an association with serious criminal activity. This usage is far removed from the lighthearted memes of TikTok, reflecting a grittier, more dangerous reality.
Broader Slang Meanings, Texting Contexts, and the Asterisk
Beyond its high-profile appearances on TikTok and in UK drill music, "67" also functions in various other slang contexts, some more general and others quite specific, including its use as a texting abbreviation.
General Approval and Endorsement
As mentioned earlier, "67" can broadly express intense agreement or endorsement, particularly on social media and online platforms. This usage signifies that something is exceptionally good or that the speaker strongly supports a statement or action. It aligns with other contemporary slang terms that convey ultimate approval, indicating that a person "left no crumbs" – meaning they did something perfectly.
Outdated or "Out of Touch"
In a humorous or sarcastic vein, "67" can also be used to imply that someone is outdated or out of touch with current trends. This usage playfully suggests that a person's ideas or style belong to a bygone era, often evoking a sense of nostalgic irrelevance. It's a way to gently tease someone for not being "hip" or current.
Concealing Caller ID: The Asterisk Distinction (*67)
It's crucial to distinguish "67" from "*67." While numerically similar, the asterisk completely changes its meaning. "*67" is a well-known phone code used to conceal or protect a caller's identity. When dialed before a phone number, it prevents your number from appearing on the recipient's caller ID, showing up as "Private," "Blocked," or "Unknown" instead. This function has been around for decades and is a practical tool for privacy, distinct from the newer slang interpretations of "67" without the asterisk.
The More Controversial & Less Common Interpretations
Like many slang terms, "67" has also acquired some less common, and in some cases, highly controversial or vulgar meanings. These interpretations are not as widely recognized or accepted as the TikTok or drill music contexts but exist within certain subcultures or specific online communities.
Vulgar and Sexual Connotations
In some contexts, "67" has been used as a slang term referring to the act of performing oral sex on a woman. This usage is often considered vulgar and offensive, showing little regard for the dignity or respect of women. It's important to note that this interpretation is not universally understood or accepted and is typically found in explicit or derogatory online discussions. Similarly, some isolated references suggest "67" as an abbreviated or sanitized form of the notorious "F word" or a shortening of the word "kinky" in text. These specific sexual connotations appear to be less widespread than other meanings and are often tied to very niche or explicit online communities.
The "Mystery" of Number-Based Slang
The roots of "67" slang are, in many ways, murky, adding a certain charm and exclusivity to its use. Unlike words that can be traced back to specific linguistic evolutions, number-based slang often emerges from obscure origins, inside jokes, or cultural references that are not immediately obvious to outsiders. This mysterious nature contributes to its appeal among younger audiences and online communities, creating a sense of insider knowledge for those who understand its various implications. It reflects how digital language is shaped by memes, trends, and the collective interpretation of online communities.
Conclusion: Context is Key
As we've explored, the meaning of "67" in slang is far from singular. It's a dynamic term that embodies the rapid evolution of language in the digital age. From its origins as a viral sensation on TikTok, linked to a specific rap song and a basketball star, to its more serious connotations within the UK drill music scene as the name of a prominent group associated with gang culture and violence, "67" demonstrates remarkable versatility.
Furthermore, its broader applications as a general term of approval, a sarcastic jab at being "out of touch," or even its distinct function as "*67" for caller ID concealment, highlight the importance of context. The less common, and often vulgar, interpretations also serve as a reminder of the diverse and sometimes explicit nature of informal language.
Ultimately, understanding "67" in slang is a testament to the fluid and ever-changing nature of modern communication. It underscores that in the realm of online lingo and youth culture, a simple number can carry a multitude of meanings, making context the ultimate key to deciphering its true intent.
67 TikTok Slang Meanings Every Parent Should Know
67 Meaning » Slang.org
67 Meaning » Slang.org
