zounds

[ zoundz ]

interjection

, Archaic.

1. (used as a mild oath.)

zounds

/ zwaʊndz; zaʊndz; zaʊndz /

interjection

1. archaic.
   a mild oath indicating surprise, indignation, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of zounds¹

First recorded in 1590–1600; variant of 'swounds

Word History and Origins

Origin of zounds¹

C16: euphemistic shortening of God's wounds

Example Sentences

“A few centuries ago, a student’s ‘zounds’ or ‘gadzooks’ would turn an English teacher’s face purple,” he said.

From Seattle Times

Zounds, a boatload of conservatives are taking to the high seas.

From Washington Times

He was the bass player for the anarcho punk band Zounds, among others, and was much loved.

From The Guardian

“Zounds!” was a twee shortening of “By his wounds,” as in those of Jesus.

From Wall Street Journal

“Gut… gut…zounds normal” as he listened with his stethoscope, feeling gently on my belly and then finally tap on some reflexes with his tomahawk hammer. 

From Forbes