The phrase “for 20 bones” is an example of casual, informal slang often used in conversations involving money. But what does it really mean, and where does it come from?

What Does “Bones” Mean in Slang?

In American slang, “bones” is a term used to refer to dollars or money. It’s most often used when talking about small sums of cash—typically in increments like 10, 20, or 50 bones. So when someone says, “for 20 bones,” they’re simply saying, “for 20 dollars.”

Example Usage:

• “I picked up this vintage record for 20 bones.”
• “He fixed my car for 20 bones—total steal.”

Where Did This Slang Come From?

The origin of “bones” as a term for money isn’t entirely clear, but there are a few theories:

1. Dice Games: Early dice were often made from animal bones, and “rolling bones” became slang for gambling, which is closely tied to money.
2. Rhyming Slang: In some dialects, creative rhyming slang plays a role. “Bones” may have developed from the idea of equating simple, everyday items with dollar amounts.
3. Old Currency: In rare cases, some suggest that bone-like materials or tokens were once used in barter systems or symbolic trade, though this is more speculation than fact.

Regardless of its origins, the term became embedded in American street slang and is still used in casual speech, especially in entertainment or urban settings.

How Common Is It?

The term isn’t as widely used as “bucks” or “dough” for money, but you might still hear it in movies, music, or informal conversations. It adds a relaxed, sometimes humorous tone to the sentence and is often used when talking about a good deal or something not too expensive.

Final Takeaway

“For 20 bones” simply means “for 20 dollars.” It’s informal, a bit old-school, and mostly used in relaxed conversations. While you might not hear it every day, knowing it helps you recognize a bit of colorful slang the next time someone talks about spending “a few bones” on something.