How Do You Spell DEEP SIXED?

Pronunciation: [dˈiːp sˈɪkst] (IPA)

"Deep sixed" is a phrase that means to dispose of something permanently, often by throwing it into the ocean. The spelling of this phrase comes from nautical terminology, where "sixed" refers to the depth of water measured in fathoms. "Deep sixed" thus means to throw something overboard into deep water. The phonetic transcription of this phrase is /diːp sɪkst/, with the stressed syllable on "deep" and the final consonant cluster "ch" reduced to a "k" sound.

Meaning and Definition
Common Misspellings
Etymology
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DEEP SIXED Meaning and Definition

  1. "Deep sixed" is an idiomatic expression that originally stems from nautical terminology. This informal phrase is primarily used as a verb and refers to the act of deliberately disposing of or discarding something, typically an object or a plan, in a manner that renders it irretrievable or inaccessible. The term "deep sixed" draws its meaning from the practice of intentionally sinking unwanted or unnecessary items, such as ships or cargo, to the bottom of the ocean.

    Figuratively, "deep sixed" is often employed in informal contexts to denote the deliberate and permanent termination or elimination of a person or an object, especially when it is done in a secretive or covert manner. It signifies a complete removal or dismissal that leaves no possibility of revival or recovery. For example, if a company decides to discontinue a product line due to its lack of profitability, they might say that the product has been "deep sixed."

    Additionally, the phrase can be used to describe the elimination or abandonment of plans, ideas, or projects that are considered unviable, impractical, or unwanted. It implies a decision to discard something entirely, without any intention of revisiting or reconsidering it in the future.

    In summary, "deep sixed" describes a deliberate and permanent act of discarding or terminating something, effectively rendering it irretrievable or inaccessible, inspired by the nautical practice of sinking unwanted items to the depths of the ocean.

Common Misspellings for DEEP SIXED

Etymology of DEEP SIXED

The phrase "deep six" or "deep sixed" is thought to have originated in nautical or maritime slang. The term is derived from the practice of burying or throwing something overboard at a depth of six fathoms (36 feet or about 11 meters). This was believed to be a sufficient depth to prevent the object from resurfacing or being easily retrieved. Originally used to refer to burial at sea, the phrase gradually extended its meaning to signify disposing of or getting rid of something in any situation. The exact origin or time of first recorded use of the expression remains unclear, but it has been in use since the early 20th century.