what the dickens
The phrase "what the dickens" is an exclamation that expresses surprise, confusion, or incredulity. It is a euphemistic way of saying "what the hell" or "what on earth," with "dickens" being used instead of a more explicit or vulgar word. The word "dickens" in this context is derived from the name of the English writer Charles Dickens, but it does not directly refer to him or have any specific meaning related to his works.
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