Street
states
What does states mean?
Clothing and items issued by the state, as opposed to personal or commissary-bought property.
"He wore states because he had no money for canteen clothes."
Origin
Clipping referencing state-issued property.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'states' mean in prison?
It refers to clothing and items issued by the state, as opposed to personal or commissary-bought property.
How is 'states' used?
It contrasts issued gear with bought gear, as in 'He wore states because he had no money for canteen clothes.'
Where does the term come from?
It's a clipping referencing state-issued property, marking the difference between what the institution provides and what an inmate buys.
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