An expression of surprise.
Etymology:
- Recorded from 1803 with uncertain origin, but possibly a euphemism for Holy Mary, with Mackerel being a nickname for Catholics because they ate the fish on Fridays. Another suggested explanation is the practice of selling mackerel on Sundays in the seventeenth century, so it was known as holy fish.
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Submitted on September 01, 2009
Translation
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sankta skombro
caballa Santa
maquereau sacré
cavala sagrada
鯖魚
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"holy mackerel." Phrases.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 18 Dec. 2024. <https://www.phrases.com/phrase/holy-mackerel_4526>.
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