In slang, "23" is an older phrase primarily meaning to "move on" or "get out." It conveys a sense of dismissal, indicating that someone should leave, depart, or that a situation is over for them.
Origins and Core Meanings
The phrase "Twenty-three" gained popularity around the turn of the 20th century, particularly among men about town, as a coded way to tell someone to leave or to express relief at their departure. It was often used in a lighthearted or jocular manner, rather than as a harsh command.
The various interpretations of "23" include:
- Move On/Get Out: This is the most direct and common interpretation, signaling an end to a presence or situation.
- Good-bye, Glad You Are Gone: It can also express a sense of relief or finality when someone departs.
- Your Move: In some contexts, it implied that it was another person's turn or responsibility, effectively saying "the ball is in your court" or "it's your time to act or leave."
The Jocular Context of "23"
Historically, the phrase was employed with a humorous or sarcastic effect among those familiar with its meaning. It allowed for a playful yet firm dismissal without being overly aggressive. For instance, if someone was lingering too long, an initiated person might jocularly utter "Twenty-three!" to prompt their departure.
Connection to "23 Skidoo"
While "23" itself was a standalone slang term, it is most famously associated with the longer, more emphatic phrase, "23 skidoo." This extended version carries the same core meaning of "hurry up," "get out," or "leave quickly," often used to tell someone to get lost or to express the need for rapid departure from a place or situation. The "skidoo" part adds an extra layer of urgency and whimsy, solidifying its place in early 20th-century American slang.
Practical Examples of Usage
Imagine a scenario where "23" might have been used:
- Ending a conversation: "Alright, that's enough talk. Twenty-three!" (Meaning: "Time to move on from this topic.")
- Prompting someone to leave: "You've had your fun, now twenty-three!" (Meaning: "It's time for you to go.")
- In a game or challenge: "Your turn's up, twenty-three!" (Meaning: "It's your move, or you're out.")
| Meaning of "23" | Contextual Application |
|---|---|
| Move on / Get out | Signaling an immediate departure or end to presence. |
| Good-bye | A lighthearted or jocular farewell, often with relief. |
| Your move | Indicating it's someone else's turn or responsibility. |
| Jocular dismissal | Playful way to end a situation or send someone away. |
Though less common today as a standalone phrase, its essence lives on through "23 skidoo," a colorful idiom from a bygone era that still occasionally crops up in popular culture and historical references. For more information on the phrase, you can explore resources like Wikipedia's entry on 23 skidoo.
