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English Lexicon

Zounds

/zaʊndz/
interjectionCEFR C2 (Proficient)Top #14500 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

1 sense
As interjection
  1. 1

    An archaic expression of surprise, anger, or indignation.

    "Zounds, what an unexpected turn of events!"
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Synonyms (2)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

Derived from the Early Modern English minced oath 'God's wounds', referring to the wounds of Christ. Over centuries, the religious components were elided and contracted to form an archaic expression of surprise or indignation.

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