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Definition

Used to add emphasis to “what” when beginning a question.

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Origins

Inherited from Middle English what þe devel, what devel.

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In Context

  • "What the Devil have you done to the horse?"
  • "What the devyll hast thou on thy fyste? An owle?"
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Also Said As

  • what the dickens
  • what on earth
  • what in God's name
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Related Idioms

t

the devil

Used to add emphasis to a question or statement.

 w

why on Earth

used to add emphasis to "why" when beginning a question.

 w

why in God's name

used to add emphasis to "why" when beginning question.

 w

what in tarnation

Used to add emphasis to "what" when beginning a question.

 w

why in the world

used to add emphasis to “why” in a question.

 w

why in time

Used to add emphasis to “why” in a question.
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