adj
doggone
DOG-on
Doggone (adj) means used as a mild, old-fashioned way of expressing annoyance, similar to "damned.". Example: “I can't find my doggone keys anywhere.”
adj
1
Used as a mild, old-fashioned way of expressing annoyance, similar to "damned."
"I can't find my doggone keys anywhere."
How to use doggone
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA folksy, mild swear word — a polite stand-in for a stronger curse.
When to use it
Old-fashioned and mostly American; used for comic or gentle emphasis rather than real anger.
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- doggones
- Past tense
- doggoned
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
I can't find my _____ keys anywhere.
Etymology
A softened, minced version of "goddamn."
Rhymes for doggone
See all rhymes for doggone →Frequently asked questions
What does “doggone” mean?
The word “doggone” means used as a mild, old-fashioned way of expressing annoyance, similar to "damned.". In plain terms, a folksy, mild swear word — a polite stand-in for a stronger curse.
How do you pronounce “doggone”?
“Doggone” is pronounced DOG-on (/ˈdɑɡ.ɑn/ in IPA).
How do you use “doggone” in a sentence?
Here is “doggone” used in a sentence: “I can't find my doggone keys anywhere.”
What part of speech is “doggone”?
“Doggone” is an adjective.
