Drill is a slang term with its origins in Chicago, Illinois. While 'drill' has multiple interpretations, it was popularized in the context of street culture by rap artist King Louie. According to him, the term was first coined by his friend “P-Pac” to denote committing a murder or shooting. This metaphor likely arose from the similarity in action between a power tool and a firearm—both piercing their targets.
Individuals who engage in drills are often referred to as drillas or hittas. The term gained widespread recognition through the emergence of 'Drill Music,' a genre that also originated from Chicago. Drill music emerged alongside the slang, with numerous artists incorporating references to drills in their lyrics. For example, Lil Reese, a prominent figure in the drill scene, released a track titled “Let’s Do a Drill.”
Evolution of the Term
Interestingly, the term 'drill' was in use even before Chicago imbued it with its current connotations. In different contexts, 'drill' can refer to various actions. For instance, during sexual intercourse, when a man penetrates a partner, it is sometimes described as 'drilling.' Moreover, 'drill' can also signify routine or standard practice. A common expression might be, “You know the drill, now hit the share button, and let your friends know what’s up.”