Looking for origin

Posted by Bruce Kahl on October 25, 2002

In Reply to: Looking for origin posted by jack on October 25, 2002

: Dear origin finders...I was curious if anyone knows the origin of the phrase(many cartoon cowboys used), 'what in tarnation?!!'
: Thanks,
: J.D.

One entry found for tarnation.

Main Entry: tar·na·tion
Pronunciation: "tär-'nA-sh&n
Function: noun
Etymology: alteration of darnation, euphemism for damnation
Date: 1790
: DAMNATION -- often used as an interjection or intensive; often used with in