When Was Tarnation First Used?

The first documented instance of “tarnation” was in Royall Tyler's 1790 play Contrast, where the character Jonathan uses it three times (along with the word “tarnal”): “Why, such a tarnal cross tike you never saw!

What is the origin of Tarnation?

character Yosemite Sam (e.g., “What in tarnation…?!”), the word “tarnation” was originally a 1784 American English derivative of “darnation,” which was, predictably enough, a milder way of expressing the profanity “damnation.” The “t” in tarnation was influenced by “tarnal,” yet another mild 18th century profanity ...

What is Tarnation slang for?

tär-nāshən. Used to express anger or annoyance. interjection. The act of damning or the condition of being damned.

Maya Lin-Takahashi

Maya Lin-Takahashi

Consumer Tech & Gadget Reviewer

Maya is a hardware enthusiast who tests and reviews smart home devices, smartphones, wearables, and audio gear. She focuses on practical consumer value and build quality.