Meaning & Definition of word "Dickens"
to
Dickens
/ˈdɪkənz/
noun:
- 1. Used to refer to the devil or a mischief-maker.
- Example: He acts like a real dickens sometimes, always getting into trouble.
interjection:
- 1. Used to express surprise, astonishment, or emphasis.
- Example: What the dickens is going on here?
- 2. An exclamation used to convey vexation or annoyance.
- Example: I can't find my keys, what the dickens happened to them?
- 3. A euphemistic expression used to soften harshness.
- Example: He was off to the dickens when he heard the bad news.
Etymology
Origin uncertain, possibly a euphemism for 'devil'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
What the dickens:
An expression of surprise or disbelief.
Dickensian:
Pertaining to the life and times of Charles Dickens, often referring to conditions of poverty.
To raise the dickens:
To create a disturbance or trouble.
Related Words
devil:
A supernatural being typically associated with evil.
mischief:
Behavior that causes trouble or annoyance.
Slang Meanings of dickens
Meaning: Used to emphasize surprise or disbelief.
Example Sentence: I can't believe you did that, what the dickens!
Meaning: A light-hearted term for trouble or chaos.
Example Sentence: You have stirred up a real dickens with that prank!