I'm creating this topic to answer questions people have asked frequently, not so frequently, or perhaps not at all, to explain terms used in ham radio that may not be familiar to new or even experienced hams. One of the barriers to enjoying the hobby is not understanding the arcane lingo we often use. A secondary purpose of this topic is to encourage people to use plain English instead of jargon whenever practical to have clear communication, which, after all, is what this hobby is about. QSL?
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Next instalment is the very familiar 73, translating to "Best Wishes" or "Best Regards". It is derived from the "92 Code" adopted by Western Union Telegraph in 1859, one of several "Brevity Codes" that are in use in Amateur Radio. These were called "Wire Signals" and were designed to increase the rate and which telegrams were delivered.
The only two that have been retained by amateurs are 73 and 88, the latter meaning "Love and Kisses", most often used by YL and XYL (female) amateurs. As the Wikipedia article points out, 30 is still in use by journalists.
These codes should not be confused with ARRL numbered radiograms which represent longer messages, e.g. ONE, meaning "Everyone safe here. Please don't worry".
Anyway it's lunch time. 21. 73. 30.