Yo, You Heard Someone Mention "Sherm"? Don't Panic, It Might Not Be What You Think (Unless It Is)
Living in the concrete jungle that is NYC, you're bound to bump into some slang that'll leave you scratching your head faster than a pigeon with lice. One word that might have you reaching for your Urban Dictionary app is "sherm." But fear not, slang slingers, because today we're gonna break down the meaning of "sherm" like a dollar pizza on a hungry student's budget.
Sherm 101: A History Lesson (Kinda)
Now, "sherm" can actually have two meanings, both stemming from the same place: a fancy tobacco store called Nat Sherman. Back in the day, Nat Sherman's cigarettes were the gold standard for a certain, shall we say, illicit activity.
Why, you ask? Well, unlike other cigarettes that would turn to mush when dipped in certain not-so-legal substances, Nat Shermans held their shape like a champ. This unfortunate fact led to their association with the drug PCP (phencyclidine, for those who like to say the whole thing), and "sherm" became synonymous with...
Sherm Meaning #1: The Not-So-Pleasant One
Yep, you guessed it. In some circles, "sherm" can refer to PCP itself. This is definitely not something you want to mess with. PCP is a dangerous drug that can cause hallucinations, violent behavior, and a whole mess of other unpleasant side effects. So, if someone offers you a "sherm stick" (a cigarette dipped in PCP), politely decline and maybe suggest a nice cup of chamomile tea instead.
Sherm Meaning #2: A Blast from the Past (Maybe)
The other meaning of "sherm" is a little less, well, intense. It can simply refer to a Nat Sherman cigarette. This usage is more likely to be heard from older New Yorkers who remember the brand's heyday. However, with the decline of Nat Sherman cigarettes and the rise of, you know, not dipping cigarettes in things, this meaning is becoming less common.
So, What Does "Sherm" Mean Today?
Honestly, it depends on the context. If you hear it on a documentary about the 70s drug scene, it probably means PCP. But if you hear your grandpa offer you a "sherm" after dinner, he's probably just reaching for a vintage smoke (though you might want to gently remind him cigarettes aren't exactly health food either).
The important takeaway? Don't jump to conclusions! If someone mentions "sherm," take a beat, assess the situation, and maybe ask for clarification. After all, in the world of NYC slang, a little confusion can go a long way.
