What does "Six Feet Under" mean?

The saying "six feet under" is a common euphemism for death and burial. It refers to the traditional depth at which graves are dug, typically around six feet deep. The phrase is often used in a figurative sense to mean that someone has passed away or that something is completely finished and beyond recovery.

The origin of the six-foot depth standard is uncertain, but one theory traces it back to the 17th century. During the Great Plague of London in 1665, the Lord Mayor issued an order that graves should be dug at least six feet deep to help prevent the spread of disease. However, in reality, grave depths have varied throughout history based on local regulations, soil conditions, and burial practices.