Etymology Journal ยท H
Holy cow!
Meaning
- A classic, all-purpose exclamation of surprise or wonder. It is the standard-bearer for family-friendly frustration or excitement.
Classic, nostalgic
Used in a sentence
- Holy cow, we are going to be late for the flight.
- Holy cow, you scared me when you jumped out like that!
- Holy cow, this traffic is absolutely insane.
The backstory
While some suggest it connects to the reverence for cows in Hinduism, it is more likely a traditional American minced oath. It gained massive popularity through baseball broadcasters like Harry Caray.
Heard in
Nationwide
Vibe check