DictionaryzoundsExclamation
interjection

zounds

ZOWNDZ/zˈaʊndz/

An old-fashioned exclamation expressing strong feeling.

Zounds, that stage prop has fallen right beside me!

An Elizabethan Black actor recoils in theatrical surprise at a fallen stage prop.
Etymology

God and wound survive here in a compressed oath invoking Christ’s wounds on the Cross. That religious invocation serves as an exclamation of surprise, anger, or emphasis.

More examples

  • Zounds, what a magnificent feast!
  • Zounds, you charge fifty dollars for a sandwich?
  • Zounds, you nearly knocked me off my feet!

Similar words

wow
Expresses surprise or admiration without the old-fashioned, oath-like tone.
gosh
A mild expression of surprise or dismay used in everyday speech.