THE DICKENS Meaning and
Definition
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"The dickens" is a colloquial expression or an exclamation used to intensify and emphasize a certain situation or action. It is most commonly used in the phrase "What the dickens?" or "What in the dickens?" as an exclamation of surprise, disbelief, or astonishment. The term "the dickens" is used as a substitute for the word "devil," and its origin can be traced back to Middle English.
When used in a phrase, "the dickens" amplifies the emotional reaction to the situation or action being referred to. It is widely regarded as a mild and humorous expletive, often used in situations where stronger language might be inappropriate or impolite. For example, one might exclaim "What the dickens is going on here?" when confronted with a chaotic or perplexing scene.
While the phrase can be used to express both positive and negative emotions, it is often associated with surprise, confusion, or a sense of being overwhelmed. It can also convey a certain degree of discomfort or annoyance. In some cases, it may be used to express a strong sense of disbelief or indignation.
Overall, "the dickens" is a versatile exclamation that adds emphasis to a statement or question, expressing a range of emotions including surprise, confusion, or astonishment. It is a common and widely understood phrase in informal and colloquial English.
Common Misspellings for THE DICKENS
- the dicken
- rhe dickens
- fhe dickens
- ghe dickens
- yhe dickens
- 6he dickens
- 5he dickens
- tge dickens
- tbe dickens
- tne dickens
- tje dickens
- tue dickens
- tye dickens
- thw dickens
- ths dickens
- thd dickens
- thr dickens
- th4 dickens
- th3 dickens
- the sickens
Etymology of THE DICKENS
The word "dickens" in the phrase "the dickens" is believed to be a euphemistic substitute for the devil. It has its origins in early modern English and is related to the German word "deikel" meaning devil or demon. Over time, it evolved into "Dickon" and then eventually "dickens" in English. Using the word "dickens" as an intensifier to express surprise or emphasis, as in "What the dickens?" or "What in the dickens?" dates back to the 16th century when it was used as a way to avoid swearing or invoking the name of the devil. Today, it is mainly seen as an archaic or somewhat humorous expression.
Idioms with the word THE DICKENS
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(as) hot as the dickens
The idiom "(as) hot as the dickens" is typically used to describe something that is extremely hot or heated. It emphasizes intense heat or high temperature.
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raise the dickens
The idiom "raise the dickens" means to cause a great uproar, commotion, or disturbance. It is often used when someone creates or incites trouble or havoc.
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raise the dickens (with sm or sth)
The idiom "raise the dickens (with someone or something)" means to cause a great disturbance, commotion, or uproar, often involving chaos, confusion, or mischief. It implies an action that creates trouble or disrupts a situation or environment.
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raise the dickens (with someone or something)
The idiom "raise the dickens (with someone or something)" refers to causing a lot of trouble, uproar, or commotion. It implies creating a situation that is chaotic, disruptive, or problematic.
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the dickens
The phrase "the dickens" is used as a mild oath or as an intensifier to express surprise, annoyance, or emphasis. It is often used in phrases such as "what the dickens" or "like the dickens".
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