The phrase "What in tarnation" is an exclamation of surprise, disbelief, or annoyance. It's a folksy, old-fashioned expression that's been around for centuries and is still used in modern-day conversations. But where did it come from? Let's venture into the intriguing world of language history to understand this curious phrase.
At its core, "What in tarnation" is a euphemism. It's a polite way to say "What in heaven," which was a more direct way of asking about something extraordinary or perplexing. The term "tarnation" itself is a corruption of "hell," softened for polite company. It's similar to other casual slang like "what the dickens" or "what the Sam Hill," which were used to avoid profanity.
Origin and Etymology
The exact origins of "What in tarnation" are unclear, but it's believed to have first appeared in the mid-19th century. It was a popular expression during that time, often used in literature and storytelling. For example, in 1852, the gentleman's magazine Spirit of the Times reported a man saying, "I don't know what in tarnation is the matter with the cuss... I reckon he's 'froze up' or somethin'."
As language evolved, so did the phrase. By the early 20th century, it had lost some of its shock value and become a common saying, even in polite conversation. Today, it's still used, though it has a nostalgic, old-fashioned feel.
The "What" and "In" Parts
The "What" part of the phrase is straightforward - it's a way of asking or expressing curiosity. It's like starting a sentence with "What happened?" or "What's this?"
The "In" part is a preposition that combines with "what" to create an interrogative phrase. In this context, it doesn't mean "inside" or "within," but rather serves to complete the interrogative structure, as in "What in the world" or "What in heaven."
The "Tarnation" Part
"Tarnation" is a euphemism for "hell." It's a softened, toned-down version used to avoid profanity. The concept of using "tarnation" instead of "hell" dates back to the 16th century. The word itself is believed to have originated from the old Northern English dialect word "tarn," meaning "hell," combined with the suffix "-ation."
By the 18th century, "tarnation" was in common use as a milder alternative to "hell." It was picked up by many English-speaking countries, including America, and has remained a part of English slang ever since.
Usage and Variations
Today, "What in tarnation" is mostly heard in casual conversation or in written works that aim to capture a particular time period, such as historical novels or regional storytelling. It's often used to express confusion, frustration, or amazement at something unexpected or extraordinary.
Some variations of the phrase include "What in the tarnation," "What on earth is tarnation," and "What the tarnation." Each has a slightly different nuance, but they all share the core meaning of expressing surprise or disbelief.
For example, in Oscar Hijuelos's 1996 novel MR IYER GOES TO WAR, a character exclaims, "What in the tarnation is going on here, I ask you?" Here, the use of "tarnation" adds a folksy, old-fashioned tone to the character's dialogue.
Region and Class
Despite its long history, "What in tarnation" is not universally used. It's more common in certain regions, particularly the Southern United States, and among speakers of Anglo-American dialects. It's also more likely to be used by older speakers, as it has a dated, nostalgic feel.
However, it's not necessarily a class-based expression. While it was once considered slightly coarse, today it's more a matter of personal preference and regional habit. Some people might use it for effect, to evoke a particular tone or time period, while others might use it because it's a part of their usual vocabulary.
Relevance Today
So, does "What in tarnation" have a place in modern language? The answer is yes - but it's likely to be used in specific contexts. It's a conscious choice, a way of invoking a particular tone or time period, rather than a spontaneous exclamation.
For instance, it might be used in historical dramas, in regional storytelling, or in everyday conversation by speakers who adopt it as a part of their personal lexicon. In each case, it carries a sense of nostalgia, of evoking a simpler, more folksy time.
Despite its long history, "What in tarnation" remains a vibrant, engaging part of English slang. It's a reminder of how language evolves over time, how words change and adapt to new contexts, and how sometimes, the old ways carry a charm all their own.
So, the next time you're stumped by something, you might find yourself wondering, "What in tarnation could be causing this confusion?" And that's perfectly okay. It's just a testament to the rich, varied history of our language.