23 skidoo

See also: 23 Skidoo Street

English

Etymology

Uncertain. Many theories exist, though none have been universally accepted. See the Wikipedia article for more information.

Pronunciation
  • IPA(key): /ˌtwɛnti ˌθɹiː skɪˈduː/
  • Audio (Southern England)(file)

Phrase

23 skidoo

  1. (idiomatic, archaic, chiefly US) To leave, particularly quickly or at an advantageous time. [ca. 1908—1923]
    • 1908, George Washington University student publication, The Cherry tree: published by the students at George Washington university, page 348:
      ... the 'varsity quarter, who at the close of each meeting discards the conventional "I move we adjourn, sir,'" for the more modern "23, skidoo."
    • 1928, Henry Robinson Luce, Time, volume 11:
      I can imagine nothing more shocking than to hear some one use a slang expression current ten years ago, such as ‘23 skidoo’ or ‘you’re off your base.’
  2. (idiomatic, archaic, chiefly US) To be forced to leave quickly. [ca. 1908—1923]

Synonyms

Further reading
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