Rio de Janeiro slang ‘deu no poste’ traces back to Jogo do Bicho history

The Brazilian expression ‘deu no poste’ has become a widespread slang term used to inquire about or announce published results, particularly in Rio de Janeiro. The phrase originates from the historical practice of posting ‘Jogo do Bicho’ lottery results on public utility poles before the advent of digital communication.

The ‘Jogo do Bicho’ was established in Rio de Janeiro in 1892 by João Batista Viana Drummond, known as the Barão de Drummond. To support the financial stability of the Vila Isabel Zoo, Drummond introduced a lottery where visitors received tickets associated with one of 25 animals. The popularity of the system led to its expansion from the zoo into the streets, cementing its place in local culture and giving rise to the enduring linguistic tradition.