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intj

crikey

KREYE-kee
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Crikey (intj) means an exclamation of surprise or astonishment. Example: “Crikey, I didn't expect that many people to show up!”

intj
1
An exclamation of surprise or astonishment.
"The label is based on the word “crikey” the famous catchphrase of Steve Irwin, and “core,” meaning the essential part of anything, according to dictionary.com." — Erielle Sudario, Australia gets its own online aesthetic with 'crikeycore' (2023)
"Crikey, mate, that ain't a knife, this is a knife!"
"Crikey, I didn't expect that many people to show up!"

How to use crikey

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA mild, old-fashioned way of saying "wow" or "goodness."

When to use it

Informal and mostly associated with British and Australian English.

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_____, I didn't expect that many people to show up!

Etymology

A 19th-century euphemism that softened the oath "Christ," similar to "cripes" and "criminy."

· First attested 1800

Class of 1800 crikey joined the language around 1800.
See the full Class of 1800 →
wow

Related words

Rhymes for crikey

See all rhymes for crikey →

Frequently asked questions

What does “crikey” mean?
The word “crikey” means an exclamation of surprise or astonishment. In plain terms, a mild, old-fashioned way of saying "wow" or "goodness.".
How do you pronounce “crikey”?
“Crikey” is pronounced KREYE-kee (/ˈkɹaɪki/ in IPA).
How do you use “crikey” in a sentence?
Here is “crikey” used in a sentence: “Crikey, I didn't expect that many people to show up!”
What part of speech is “crikey”?
“Crikey” is an intj.
Where does the word “crikey” come from?
The word “crikey” dates back to around 1800. A 19th-century euphemism that softened the oath "Christ," similar to "cripes" and "criminy.".

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