The phrase "what in tarnation" is a classic expression of surprise, confusion, or disbelief. But where did this peculiar phrase originate, and what does it actually mean? Let's delve into the origins and evolution of this distinctly American idiom.
Before we explore the phrase's origin, let's understand its meaning. "What in tarnation" is a mild, euphemistic way of saying "What the hell." It's often used to express puzzlement or frustration, as in "What in tarnation is going on here?"
The Southern Origin Theory
One common theory about the phrase's origin is that it hails from the Southern United States. Some believe it emerged during the late 18th or early 19th century, perhaps among families who wanted to avoid using coarse language in the presence of their children.
However, there's little concrete evidence to support this theory. While the South is certainly known for its unique dialects and expressions, the first known print appearance of "tarnation" is actually in a Northern newspaper.
Early Print Appearances
In 1833, the Yankees' Magazine, published in Boston, used the phrase "what in tarnation" in a humorous sketch. This suggests that the phrase was already in use in the North by the early 1800s. However, this doesn't disprove the Southern origin theory, as people and ideas do travel.
Another early appearance of the phrase is in Washington Irving's 1850 book "The Arabian Nigbits' Entertainments." Irving, a New Yorker, used the phrase in a story set in the American Midwest. This further complicates the origins but supports the idea that the phrase was in use and understood by readers across different regions.
The Milquetoast Explanation
However, this theory also lacks solid evidence. Milquetoast's character was created in the 20th century, and there's no proof that he was based on an earlier character or phrase. Moreover, the first known print appearance of "tarnation" predates the Milquetoast character by over a century.
Other Phrases and Origins
Some researchers suggest that "tarnation" is a corruption of "hellation" or "darnation," which are themselves euphemisms for "hell" or "damnation." This could explain why "what in tarnation" serves as a mild oath. However, there's no definitive proof of this etymology.
Another theory proposes that "tarnation" is a blend of "tarnation" (heaven) and "hellation" (hell), symbolizing a struggle between good and evil. Again, this is speculation, and there's no concrete evidence to support it.
In conclusion, while there are several theories about the origin of "what in tarnation," none of them are definitively proven. The Southern origin theory is perhaps the most popular, but the phrase's early print appearances in the North cast doubt on this idea. Ultimately, the true origin of "what in tarnation" may remain a mystery, adding to the allure of this classic American idiom.
