Jeez

/dʒiːz/ interjection

Definition

An exclamation expressing surprise, annoyance, or frustration—a mild oath.

Etymology

A euphemistic alteration of 'Jesus,' used as an exclamation. Common in American English since the early 1900s as a way to avoid blasphemy while expressing strong emotion.

Kelly Says

Jeez is basically 'Jesus' in disguise—people invented it to swear without actually swearing! Languages are always creating these secret codes to say forbidden things respectfully, and English has dozens.

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