What Does 187 Mean?

Origin: US
Ages: 15-45
Since: 1980s
Classic

What do you think a teen means when they say "187"?

A random number or a specific house address

A code or slang term referring to murder or homicide

Take a quick guess

Select an option to reveal the meaning, origin, and a short example.

Not quite — here's what it actually means.

You got it — you're ahead of most parents.

"187" is a slang term derived from the California Penal Code section for murder, used primarily in hip-hop and urban culture. It is often used to signify a threat or to describe a homicide that has occurred.

The term gained national and international prominence through West Coast gangsta rap in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Artists like Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre frequently referenced the code in their lyrics, cementing it in popular culture.

"I heard there was a 187 on the news last night."

"Yeah, the police are still looking for the suspect in that homicide case."

187

Is 187 Safe? Meaning, Risk & Tips

The same word can mean very different things. Here's what to look for in your child's situation.

High-Risk Slang

This one needs your attention — now.

Teens use "187" as a coded slang term for murder or serious violence, often picked up from music or online culture. It is typically used in contexts involving threats or discussions about crime. If you notice your child using this term, it is best to have a calm conversation with them to understand the context and ensure they are not being exposed to dangerous influences.

Watch for these signs

Mentioned with a target's name to indicate an immediate threat of lethal violence
Used while coordinating a location and time to commit a premeditated homicide
Combined with images of weapons or evidence of a fatal violent act

Not sure if this affects your child? Take a quick check now

They've started using this word to describe real people or groups, not just in a music or meme context.

Goes beyond casual pop-culture use

Their social circle has shifted recently — new older friends you haven't met.

Changes in peer group are a key signal

They've become more secretive — guarding their phone, ending conversations when you walk in.

Behavioral changes matter more than the word itself

The word appears frequently, in multiple contexts — not just once or twice.

Frequency and context together signal deeper engagement

You've noticed unexplained money, new possessions, or changes in routine.

Offline signals are often more telling than online language

0 of 5 selected · Just normal teen talk — no need to worry

Nothing to worry about right now.

Based on what you've checked, this looks like casual use. Keep the lines of communication open — but no alarm needed.

Worth keeping an eye on.

A couple of signals together aren't cause for panic, but it's a good moment to start paying attention.

Time to have a conversation.

This many signals together deserve your attention. Find a calm moment to talk with your child — let them know you're here to help, not to judge.

What to Do If Your Child Is Using "187"

Every situation is different. Here are four approaches — pick what fits yours.

Start with Curiosity

Open dialogue, build comfort

Watch Before You Act

Observe, don't interrogate

Address What's Behind the Word

Look past the word, focus on the child

Stay a Step Ahead

When conversation isn't enough

Start with Curiosity

Position yourself as a learner, not a monitor — teens respond far better when they feel respected than when they feel interrogated. Skip the accusations and lead with genuine interest.

Try saying this:

“I came across '187' recently — what does it mean when people say it?”

Tip: Starting with "I" instead of "you" removes the feeling of accusation before the conversation even begins.

Watch Before You Act

You don't always need to bring it up immediately. Give it a few days — observe the pattern, who they're with, how they're feeling. One data point isn't a trend.

What to watch for:

“Notice if 187 appears when your teen acts unusually defensive or starts clearing their message history after online gaming.”

Tip: Jumping in too early can make them defensive. Waiting gives you more context — and a better moment to open up.

Address What's Behind the Word

When '187' shows up, don't fix the word — check in on the child. Something heavier than slang might be going on beneath the surface.

Try this:

“Because 187 is a code for murder, please tell me if you are safe or feeling truly threatened.”

Tip: Behind tough words is often a child who just needs someone to check in. You showing up matters more than you know.

Stay a Step Ahead

Sometimes slang moves faster than conversations can happen. Being informed isn't about invading privacy — it's about being ready to guide them when it matters.

A parental control tool can help >

What it can do:

“Set keyword alerts for slang terms — get notified the moment a concerning word appears in your child's messages.”

Tip: The goal isn't to read every message — it's to have a safety net that tells you when to step in.

What Does 187 Mean?

Is 187 Safe? Meaning, Risk & Tips

This one needs your attention — now.

What to Do If Your Child Is Using "187"

Start with Curiosity

Watch Before You Act

Address What's Behind the Word

Stay a Step Ahead

Get Alerted When 187 Shows Up

Heard Another Word You Don't Recognize?

What Does 187 Mean?

Is 187 Safe? Meaning, Risk & Tips

This one needs your attention — now.

What to Do If Your Child Is Using "187"

Start with Curiosity

Watch Before You Act

Address What's Behind the Word

Stay a Step Ahead

Get Alerted When 187 Shows Up

Trending Slang

Heard Another Word You Don't Recognize?