What does the term 'deep six' mean?

Study for the U.S. Navy's Delayed Entry Program Test. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your enlistment!

The term 'deep six' specifically refers to the act of disposing of something, particularly in the context of throwing it overboard or into the water. This phrase is believed to have originated in maritime culture, where sailors would literally discard items by throwing them into deep water, making them impossible to retrieve.

This expression underscores a hard-nosed approach to disposal—indicating that something is no longer needed or valued and, therefore, is simply gotten rid of. In nautical terms, the "six" likely refers to six feet deep, suggesting that the item is being thrown far enough into the water to ensure it sinks and is lost.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the meaning of 'deep six':

  • Thorough cleaning is more about maintenance rather than disposal.

  • Measuring depths of water pertains to navigation and safety rather than the act of getting rid of something.

  • Securing tightly refers to fastening items safely onboard, which also does not connect to the concept of discarding.

Thus, 'deep six' accurately captures the idea of disposal by implying permanence and finality in the process of throwing an item away.

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