Slang of the Badge: Uncovering Police Lingo
From radio codes to police jargon, understanding law enforcement slang is essential for communication and clarity.
2025-03-08T09:19:25.233Z Back to posts
The Language of Law Enforcement: Slang for Cops
As with any profession, law enforcement has its own set of unique terminology and slang that is often used within the department but may be unfamiliar to outsiders. In this article, we will explore some common slang terms used by police officers.
General Terms
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 10-4 | Affirmative response or understanding |
| 5-0 | Police (a reference to the popular TV show “CHiPs”) |
| Adam 12 | Code for “officer needs assistance” |
Police officers often use radio codes to communicate quickly and efficiently. These codes are used to convey specific messages, such as the location of a call or the need for backup.
Vehicle-Related Terms
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Hot Car | A stolen vehicle |
| Whammy | A police vehicle that has been modified with additional equipment, such as lights and sirens |
| Chaser | An officer who drives behind a suspect’s vehicle to provide support |
Police officers often use slang terms to describe specific vehicles or situations.
Person-Related Terms
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| K9 | A police dog |
| FTO | Field Training Officer, an experienced officer who trains new recruits |
| Rookie | A new police officer with limited experience |
Police officers often use slang terms to describe specific individuals or roles within the department.
Action-Related Terms
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 187 | Murder (a reference to the California Penal Code section) |
| 5150 | A person who is deemed to be a danger to themselves or others, requiring mental health intervention |
| KIA | Killed In Action, often used in tactical situations |
Police officers often use slang terms to describe specific actions or situations.
Jargon and Acronyms
In addition to these slang terms, police departments also use a variety of jargon and acronyms. Some common examples include:
- SWAT (Special Weapons and Tactics)
- K-9 (Canine Unit)
- CSI (Crime Scene Investigation)
Police officers often use these terms to describe specific units or tasks within the department.
Conclusion
Slang terminology is an essential part of law enforcement culture, allowing officers to communicate quickly and efficiently. By understanding these terms, outsiders can gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities of police work and the unique challenges faced by officers on a daily basis.