criminy

interjection

crim·​i·​ny ˈkri-mə-nē How to pronounce criminy (audio)
ˈkrī-
used as a mild oath or to express surprise

Word History

Etymology

perhaps alteration of jiminy, gemini, mild oath, probably euphemism for Late Latin Jesu domine Jesus Lord!

First Known Use

1681, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of criminy was in 1681

Dictionary Entries Near criminy

Cite this Entry

“Criminy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/criminy. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

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