Origins of "What in Tarnation": Where Did thephrase Come From?

The phrase "what in tarnation where did it come from" is a curious and intriguing expression, one that has nestled itself into the heart of colloquial English. It's a question that, quite literally, asks about the origins of something, often with a tint of bewilderment or confusion.

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But where did this phrase come from itself? Let's dive into the fascinating world of linguistics and etymology to unravel the mystery behind "what in tarnation where did it come from".

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Evolution of the Phrase

The term "tarnation" is an old-fashioned way of saying "damnation" or "hell." It's a euphemism, a softer, less offensive way of expressing strong emotion. The phrase first emerged in the mid-19th century in the American South, a region known for its unique Southern drawl and folksy expressions.

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However, prerequisites like "what in" and the placement of "where" have led some to believe that it's an American pidgin creation, influenced by pidgin languages that were common in the United States during the 1800s. But is there more to the story?

Possibly of African Origin

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Some linguists argue that "tarnation" could have African origins. The phrase "What nation?" was commonly used by enslaved Africans as a mockery of slave owners who asked, "What's your nation?" meaning what country you came from. Over time, "What nation?" may have evolved into "What in tarnation" as a way to express surprise or disbelief.

This theory is supported by the phrase's first appearance in print in "Uncle Ned's Cabin," a 1853 novel that features African American dialect. In the story, a character exclaims, "What in tarnation, arter all, is this here?_

Identifying Predecessors

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While "What in tarnation" may have evolved from pidgin or African American Vernacular English, it also shares similarities with older English phrases. "What in the world" and "What in the name" were common expressions since the 16th century. It's possible that the addition of "where" and the substitution of "world" or "name" with "tarnation" gave us the modern phrase.

Additionally, the use of "what in" as a way to express strong emotion is not unique to "tarnation." Other examples include "What in heaven's name" and "What in the devil" (another euphemism for hell, like "tarnation").

PNL, Phrasal, or Not?

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Now, let's discuss the phrasal nature of the expression. Some linguists argue that "what in tarnation where did it come from" is actually two separate phrases: "what in tarnation" and "where did it come from," making it not entirely phrasal. However, some native speakers insist that it's a single, archaic unit.

Whether phrasal or not, the phrase's unique structure and placement of "where" contribute to its folksy charm and ambiguity, adding to its mystique and wide use in storytelling and comedy.

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Use in Popular Culture

The phrase has made its mark in various forms of media. From old Western films to modern comedies, "what in tarnation where did it come from" has been used to emphasize disbelief, shock, or confusion. Its folksy, humorous tone has made it a favorite among writers and creators looking to add a touch of old-fashioned humor or confusion to their work.

One notable example is Bugs Bunny's use of the phrase in the 1957 cartoon "Piker's Peak." Bugs exclaims, "What in tarnation where did that come from?" as he's hit on the head with a giant anvil, perfectly encapsulating the phrase's usage in humor and shock.

Impact on Modern Language

The phrase has endured, becoming a part of American English lexicon. It's used less frequently in everyday conversation today but continues to be employed in jokes, stories, and humorous situations. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its unique structure and folksy charm.

The phrase's influence can also be seen in newer expressions, like "what in the Sam Hill" (a milder alternative) and "what in the AFC" (an internet meme that uses "AFC" as a placeholder for various words or phrases).

The journey of "what in tarnation where did it come from" is a fascinating tale of evolution, blending influences from pidgin, African American Vernacular English, and old English phrases. Its folksy charm and humorous structure have earned it a place in American English, and it continues to entertain and confuse in equal measure. So, the next time you find yourself exclaiming "what in tarnation where did it come from," remember that you're part of a long, winding linguistic tradition.