The phrase "what in tarnation" is an exclamation of surprise or disbelief, often used to express confusion or shock. It's a colorful, folksy way of saying "what on earth" or "what in the world."
This idiomatic expression is rooted in American southern and western dialects, reflecting the influence of frontier culture and cowboy slang. The term "tarnation" is a euphemism for "hell", substituting "hell" with "tarn", a corruption of "hell".
Etymology and Origin
The exact origins of "what in tarnation" are unclear, but it has been a part of American English since the mid-19th century. It likely emerged in the Southern and Southwestern regions of the United States, where many turned-of-the-century phrases originated.
Historical records show "what in tarnation" being used as early as the 1850s, with Mark Twain, the renowned American author, even using it in one of his works, "Adventures of Huckleberry Finn".
Variations and Synonyms
While "what in tarnation" is the most common form, there are several variations, such as "what the tarnation," "what is tarnation," and "what on earth's sake." These slight changes in phrasing do not alter the meaning or intent of the expression.
Synonyms for "what in tarnation" include "what in the world," "what on earth," "what in heaven's name," "what in Sam Hill," and "what in the Sam Hill." Each of these expressions serves the same purpose: to express confusion, surprise, or exasperation.
Usage and Context
"What in tarnation" can be used in various contexts, from everyday conversations to literature and popular culture. In fiction, it's often employed to characterize regional dialects, denote historical settings, or add a touch of folksy charm to dialog.
Here's how it might be used in different scenarios:
- When reacting to surprising news: "When I heard that the company was selling, I said, 'What in tarnation is going on?'"
- In a literary work set in the American South: "'What in tarnation are you doing here, Maude?' he asked, tipping his hat back and squinting at her in the sun."
- In a humorous or lighthearted context: "I tried to cook the most complicated recipe, and when I saw my burnt dinner, I just said, 'What in tarnation happened here?'"
In Popular Culture
The phrase "what in tarnation" has made its way into various forms of popular culture, including movies, TV shows, music, and literature. For instance, it's used in the classic film "Gone with the Wind" and the TV series "True Blood".
In music, country and folk genres frequently incorporate this phrase into lyrics. An example is the song "Git Along Little Dogies" by Gene Autry, where he sings, "Well, what in tarnation are we waitin' for?"
In conclusion, while "what in tarnation" may seem like an outdated or regional expression, it's a colorful and expressive way to express disbelief or surprise. Its longevity and versatility in American English show that there's always room for such vivid idioms in our language.