Jeez: meaning, definitions and examples

The term 'jeez' is a phonetic alteration of the name 'Jesus', which has been used as an exclamation since the early 20th century. Originally, this expression was an example of a mild expletive that was used in response to surprising or intense situations. Its usage can be seen in various forms throughout the English-speaking world, often acting as a substitute to avoid directly using 'Jesus' in contexts considered inappropriate or blasphemous. By the mid-1900s, 'jeez' became popularized within American culture, frequently appearing in informal speech, television, and literature. The simplification of the term reflects a broader trend in language toward euphemisms and softer expressions to convey strong emotions without disrespecting religious connotations.

Ranking #38,954, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

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• 38953 fizzed
• 38954 jeez
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