Used as an intensifier, similar to “damn” in American English
Bloody
Example Sentences
"It's bloody hot today!"
"That was a bloody good meal."
"Where are my bloody keys?"
Etymology & History
British intensifier, used as mild curse since the 1670s. Etymology disputed: possibly 'by Our Lady', or association with aristocratic 'bloods' (rowdy young men), or literal blood. Considered shocking in Victorian times (Shaw's 'Pygmalion' caused scandal in 1914). Now relatively mild, characteristic British intensifier.
Word Details
📍
Region
General British
📅
Era
Victorian
✓
Language
Mild
💬
Formality
Informal
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Anglotopia's Dictionary of British English 2nd Edition
British Slang from A to Zed
By Jonathan Thomas
📚 Over 2,000+ British Slang Definitions!