CB Radio Slang
by johnataylor · 22 things on Twos
- Those of us who grew up in the USA in the 1970's remember our parents being caught up in the CB (Citizen's Band) Radio craze. Nearly every car had a CB Radio installed. Many homes had base stations (usually sitting next to their Police Scanners). Movies and music helped popularize the craze, and every kid diligently learned radio slang so they could talk to others, especially truckers, on the CB Radio. This list shows some of the most common phrases.
- 10-4: Acknowledgment, message received
- Breaker, Breaker: Request for a radio check or to interrupt ongoing conversation
- Smokey: Police officer or highway patrol
- Bear: Police officer
- Good buddy: Friendly term for another CB radio user
- Hammer down: Driving at high speed
- Four-wheeler: Passenger car or truck
- Rubber duck: CB radio antenna
- Double nickel: Speed limit of 55 mph
- Yardstick: Mile marker or exit number
- Sandbagging: Intentionally withholding information
- Chicken coop: Weigh station or scale house
- Granny lane: Slow lane or right lane
- On the side: Not actively transmitting, but still listening
- Alligator: Large piece of tire debris on the road
- Smokey report: Report on police activity or speed traps
- Drop the hammer: Accelerate quickly
- Back door: Behind a vehicle or out of sight of law enforcement
- Catch you on the flip side: Goodbye or see you later
- Kojack with a Kodak: Police officer using a radar gun
- Remember, CB radio slang can vary regionally, so it's always a good idea to familiarize yourself with the slang used in your area.