Why is it “Six Feet Under”? The Evolution of a Common Phrase

The phrase "six feet under" is a well-known idiom that has been used for centuries to suggest someone's death. The term conjures vivid imagery of a body being buried six feet underground, and it is often used in literature, media, and everyday conversation. However, the origins of this phrase and its precise meaning have evolved over time.

The Historical Origins

One of the earliest recorded instances of the phrase "six feet under" can be traced back to the Great Plague of London in 1665. At that time, the Mayor of London decreed that the bodies of those who had died from the plague must be buried six feet underground to prevent further spread of the infection. This decision was made to ensure that any potential scavengers, such as animals, would be deterred from digging up the corpses.

The exact reasoning behind this six-foot depth is not well-documented. It is believed that the depth was chosen to prevent scavengers, like dogs, from digging up and disturbing the bodies of the deceased. Additionally, it was thought to be a safe distance to prevent the spread of the plague through the air and soil.

The Phrase Today

Today, the phrase "six feet under" is more of a metaphorical expression than a literal requirement. While the term was initially used to describe a safe burial depth during a health emergency, it has now become a common idiom to indicate death or someone being gone forever.

The practice of burying bodies six feet underground has varied over time and by location. In England, for instance, during the Great Plague, the depth of the graves was indeed mandated to be six feet deep. However, it is worth noting that most London victims were buried in mass graves known as "plague pits," which were typically much deeper, often around 20 feet in depth. This raises questions about the actual enforceability of the six-foot mandate during the plague.

Even in modern times, the exact depth of burial varies. In the United States, the depth of graves can vary significantly, with some states requiring as little as 18 inches of soil over a casket. In Canada, the practice of burying bodies six feet underground is more common, though not always specified in the law.

Contemporary Usage

The phrase "six feet under" is often used in contexts beyond just death. For example, it can be employed to threaten someone, suggesting that they will be killed or removed from their position. In modern usage, the phrase has become less about the physical act of burial and more about the finality of death or the end of a relationship, career, or project.

It is important to note that while the phrase has roots in the 17th-century plague, its contemporary usage has shifted significantly. Today, "six feet under" is more about the metaphorical sense of someone being gone forever, rather than a literal adherence to burial regulations.

Conclusion

The phrase "six feet under" has a rich history that spans centuries and continents. From the Great Plague of London to modern usage, the phrase has evolved to mean different things to different people. While its literal meaning has changed, its metaphorical use remains a powerful and enduring part of the English language, often used to convey the finality of death or the end of something significant.