187 Meaning: What Does It Mean?

In our reference on “187 Meaning,” we explore the slang term “187,” derived from the California Penal Code section 187. This code defines the crime of murder and has found its way into popular culture through gang references, hip-hop music, movies, and casual conversation.

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Table of Contents

187 Meaning

What Does 187 Mean?

In short, 187 is slang for murder. The term is derived from Section 187 of the California Penal Code, which defines the crime of murder. The number is commonly pronounced “one-eight-seven” or “one-eighty-seven” rather than “one hundred eighty-seven.”

The slang use of 187 is often associated with hip-hop songs dealing with topics of crime or gang violence. It’s also commonly used in mainstream movies and TV shows that feature gang-related storylines.

While the term is most commonly associated with gang culture, it’s important to note that using slang terms like 187 to refer to violent crimes can be harmful and can perpetuate harmful stereotypes about certain communities.

It’s also worth noting that the term 187 is not unique to California. Other states and jurisdictions have their own legal codes that define murder, and some may use different numbers or terms to refer to the crime.

How ‘187’ is Used in Slang

In slang, the term ‘187’ is used to refer to murder or acts of violence. It can be used in a variety of contexts, such as in conversations among gang members or in rap lyrics. For example, a rapper might say, “I’m a killer, I’m always down for a 187,” meaning that they are willing to commit acts of violence.

Examples of ‘187’ in Use

Conversation

Example 1:

Person A: “Did you see what happened on Main Street last night?”
Person B: “Yeah, I heard it was a straight-up 187. The cops were all over the place.”
Person A: “Crazy… This neighborhood is getting rougher every day.”

Example 2:

Person A: “Why’s everyone so tense at the party?”
Person B: “There was some beef earlier. Someone threatened a 187 if things didn’t cool down.”
Person A: “Man, I hope it doesn’t go there. We don’t need that kind of drama.”

Texting

“Yo, heard there was a 187 on the corner last night. Stay safe out there.”
“Just a heads up, things are getting heated in the hood. Someone’s talking about a 187.”
“Yo, did you hear about that drive-by last night? It was a straight up 187.”
“I’m from the streets, I’m always ready for a 187.”
“I’m not afraid to do a 187, I’ll do whatever it takes to survive.”

Social Media Post

“Can’t believe the news… Another 187 in our city. When will this end?”
“People glorify the street life, but when it comes to a real 187, they don’t realize the impact.”

Related Term to 187

211 – Robbery (California Penal Code section for robbery)
187.1 – Attempted murder (a variation of 187)
187K – Code for murder, specifically used in some law enforcement contexts
213 – Assault with intent to commit robbery or rape
420 – Slang for marijuana, but sometimes used to reference illegal activities
Gangsta – Slang term for someone involved in gang activity
Strapped – Carrying a weapon, usually a gun
Ride-by / Drive-by – A shooting committed from a moving vehicle
Cap – To shoot someone
Pop – To shoot or attack someone
Hit – An order or plan to kill someone

187 Synonyms

Murder	Homicide
Kill	Slay
Execute	Terminate
Assassinate	Take out
Eliminate	Butcher
Off	Waste
Snuff	Finish
End	Put down
Do in	Drop
Ice	Dispatch
Erase	Neutralize
Liquidate

187 in Popular Media

Music and Lyrics

In music, “187” gained widespread attention through hip hop and rap. Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg popularized it in their 1992 song “Deep Cover,” using “187” to denote murder. This slang quickly became a defining element in the genre, influencing other rappers and artists.

Artists like Tupac Shakur and Notorious B.I.G. frequently referenced “187” in their songs. These lyrics not only reflect street culture but also provide social commentary on violence and crime. By embedding “187” in their music, they give voice to real-life issues faced by many communities.

Film and Television

Films and TV shows have also used “187” to depict crime and its consequences. The movie “One Eight Seven,” starring Samuel L. Jackson, focuses on a high school teacher in a crime-ridden area. This film underscores how the term has crossed over from legal jargon into mainstream media.

Shows like “The Wire” and “Law & Order” frequently reference “187” when depicting murder cases. The use of this term adds authenticity and reinforces the severity of the crimes being portrayed. It’s a shorthand that quickly communicates the gravity of a situation to the audience.

Literature

In literature, “187” appears in crime and detective novels. Authors use it to set the tone and establish stakes. It serves as a stark reminder of the seriousness of the crime being investigated. By using “187,” writers add a layer of realism and immediacy to their stories.

Books focusing on gang life, particularly in urban settings, often include “187” as part of their dialogue and narrative. This not only enhances the story’s authenticity but also provides readers with a deeper insight into the struggles and realities of those environments.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of ‘187’ in popular culture?

‘187’ is a term that is commonly used in popular culture, particularly in hip-hop music. It is often used as slang for ‘murder’ and is associated with topics of crime and gang violence.

What does the term ‘187’ refer to in police code?

In police code, ‘187’ is the code for murder. It is used by law enforcement to indicate that a homicide has occurred.

What does the song ‘187’ by Snoop Dogg mean?

The song ‘187’ by Snoop Dogg is a reference to the police code for murder. It is a tribute to the gangster lifestyle and the culture of violence that is often associated with it.

What is the connection between ‘187’ and the Bible?

There is no direct connection between ‘187’ and the Bible. However, some people have interpreted the number as a symbol of death and destruction, which is consistent with certain themes in the Bible.

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