TARNATION Meaning and
Definition
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Tarnation is an informal expression primarily used in North America, particularly the United States, as an intensifier or exclamation to denote surprise, frustration, annoyance, or confusion. It is used in a similar manner to "damn" or "hell" but in a milder sense. While not considered vulgar or profane, it is still regarded as a colloquial and sometimes old-fashioned term.
The word itself originates from the combination of "damnation" and "nation," forming a euphemism for the phrase "eternal damnation." With time, its meaning and usage have evolved, and it no longer carries the religious connotation it once did.
"Tarnation" is an expressive word often employed to convey emotions of astonishment or disbelief, as in "What in tarnation is going on here?" or "Where in tarnation did I put my keys?"
As it is considered informal and primarily used in spoken language, "tarnation" may not be found in standardized dictionaries, but it is well established in regional dialects and American vernacular. Its usage is common in literature, movies, and television shows set in the American West or rural areas, where it is meant to evoke the language and spirit of frontier times.
Common Misspellings for TARNATION
- yarnation
- 6arnation
- 5arnation
- tzrnation
- tsrnation
- twrnation
- tqrnation
- taenation
- tadnation
- tafnation
- tatnation
- ta5nation
- ta4nation
- tarbation
- tarmation
- tarjation
- tarhation
- tarnztion
- tarnstion
- tarnwtion
Etymology of TARNATION
The word "tarnation" originates from the United States and is primarily associated with American English. Its etymology is not entirely clear, and there are a few theories about its origin.
One theory suggests that "tarnation" is a contraction of the phrase "eternal damnation". In this context, it would be used as a euphemism for a mild curse word. However, this theory is speculative and lacks concrete evidence.
Another theory suggests that "tarnation" could be derived from the word "darn" or "darnation", which were used as euphemisms for "damnation" in the American South during the 19th century. Over time, "tarnation" emerged as a variant of these words, potentially influenced by regional accents and dialects.
Idioms with the word TARNATION
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in tarnation?
The idiom "in tarnation" is used to express surprise, frustration, or anger. It is often used as a mild swear word or expletive in place of stronger language.
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