Browse phrases beginning with: [A][B][C][D][E][F][G][H][I][J][K][L][M][N][O][P][Q][R][S][T][U,V][W][X,Y,Z]

Like the Dickens

Meaning

A lot; as in 'hurts like the dickens'.

Origin

This phrase has nothing to do with Charles Dickens. Dickens is a euphemism, specifically a minced-oath, for the word devil, possibly via devilkins. Shakespeare used it in 'the Merry Wives of Windsor, 1600:

I cannot tell what the dickens his name is my husband had him of.

See other phrases and sayings from Shakespeare.

Phrasefinder is also on &

Tudor Phrases and Sayings - a book on the meanings and origins of the phrases and sayings that Shakespeare and Henry VIII used that we use still use every day.

phrases, sayings, idioms and expressions at

The meaning and origin of the expression: Like the Dickens

Like the Dickens

Meaning

Origin