General
pop smoke
What does pop smoke mean?
Literally, to set off a colored smoke grenade to mark a position for extraction; figuratively, to leave abruptly or finish a period of service.
"Once the paperwork clears I'm going to pop smoke and head home."
Origin
US military; from the tactical use of smoke grenades to signal helicopters.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'pop smoke' mean?
Literally, to set off a colored smoke grenade to mark a position; figuratively, to leave abruptly or wrap up a period of service.
Where does 'pop smoke' come from?
US military tactics — troops pop a smoke grenade to signal their position to inbound helicopters for extraction.
How do you use 'pop smoke' figuratively?
As a way to say you're leaving or getting out, e.g. 'Time to pop smoke and head home.'
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