the dickens
The phrase "the dickens" is an old-fashioned euphemism used to add emphasis or express surprise, often replacing stronger language.
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Definition
B2General
(informal, emphasis)An expression used to add force or surprise to a statement or question.
Example
- What the dickens are you doing here?
- It scared the dickens out of me.
B2Euphemism
(historical, mild)A mild substitute for stronger language like 'devil' or 'hell.'
Example
- I've been working like the dickens all day.