The phrase "what in tarnation" is likely to stump many modern-day English speakers, evoking curiosity about its origin and meaning. Originating from the Southern United States, this expression has its roots deeply embedded in the region's unique linguistic history.
Before diving into its history, let's first understand the phrase's literal meaning. "What in tarnation" is a euphemistic exclamation, serving as a milder alternative to the more vulgar "what in heaven's name". It's often used to express confusion, surprise, or disbelief, equivalent to saying "what on earth" or "what in the world".
Etymological Origins
To unravel the mystery behind this phrase, we must journey back to the 18th century when it first began to appear in print.
A common misconception suggests that "tarnation" is a misspelling of "ination", a seemingly logical assumption given the phonetic similarity. However, this theory is discounted by linguistic scholars due to the lack of evidence supporting this evolution.
The Minority Report Hypothesis
One theory, known as the "minority report" hypothesis, posits that "tarnation" emerged from theVALIDATION of regional dialectical influences. In the Southern United States, particularly among African American communities, the phrase "tarnation" appeared to be a blend of "tarnation" and "ination". This fusion, facilitated by the inherently flexible nature of language, resulted in the unique expression we know today.
Supporting this theory is the fact that "tarnation" was often used in the South as an intensifier, similar to how it's used in "what in tarnation". For instance, one might say, "That's the tarnationாலest thing I ever saw".
The Bootstrapping Theory
Another theory, known as the "bootstrapping" theory, proposes that "tarnation" might have evolved from a blend of "tarn" (referring to corruption or evil) and "ation" (a suffix denoting a state of being or process). This etymological fusion could explain why "tarnation" became a euphemistic replacement for stronger exclamations.
Moreover, the connection between "tarn" and "tarnation" is evidenced by related phrases, such as "tarnal" (an adjective meaning 'damned' or 'accursed'). For example, Mark Twain used "tarnal" in "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn": "I warn't just so tarnal stupid but I knew it".
Evolution and Modern Usage
Having established the likely origins of "what in tarnation", let's explore how this phrase evolved and retains relevance today.
Over time, "what in tarnation" has transcended its regional roots, becoming a recognizable idiom in American English. Its versatility has expanded to include various contexts, from casual conversations to literature and popular culture. For example, it's used in the novel "Cold Sassy Tree" by Olive Ann Burns and in the television series "Stranger Things".
Literary Appropriation
Many authors have appropriated "what in tarnation" to create vivid, folksy dialects for their characters. This usage is exemplified in Zora Neale Hurston's "Their Eyes Were Watching God", where she writes, "What in tarnation he want? If he don't shut up his jaw, I'm fixed to shut it for him".
Similarly, in Chinese American literature, the phrase has been used to represent the blend of cultures, as in Maxine Hong Kingston's "The Woman Warrior": "Even if they did want me, what in tarnation good would it do them? They'd have no place to live".
Pop Culture and Beyond
In the realm of popular culture, "what in tarnation" has been used to create nostalgia or evoke a specific era. For instance, the phrase is used in the 1980s-set film "Stranger Things" to embody the spirit of small-town America during that time.
Today, "what in tarnation" continues to be employed in everyday conversation, perhaps more often for comic effect. Its longevity is a testament to the enduring power of language to adapt, evolve, and reflect changing cultures and generations.
In the final analysis, the story of "what in tarnation" reflects the richness and complexity of American English. Like many idioms, its true origins may forever remain shrouded in mystery. Yet, exploring the various theories behind its emergence serves as a fascinating journey through time, illuminating the interplay of linguistic forces that shape our language. So, the next time you find yourself blurting out "what in tarnation", pause to appreciate the history packed within those four simple words.