Top Pages
Home
A-Z Glossary
Punctuation
A-Z Confused Words
Common Mistakes
(ordered by seriousness) Top Tip
Get a grammar checker
for your browser ESL Vocabulary Lists Parts of Speech Lists Tests and Games Awkward Plurals Sayings and Proverbs Twitter YouTube
(ordered by seriousness) Top Tip
Get a grammar checker
for your browser ESL Vocabulary Lists Parts of Speech Lists Tests and Games Awkward Plurals Sayings and Proverbs Twitter YouTube
Son of a Gun (Origin)
What Is the Origin of the Saying "Son of a Gun"?
The term "son of a gun" means a scamp.
Alternative Theory
The term "son of a gun" is a rhyming alternative to "son of a bitch" or "son of a whore." It has come into common use simply because it is easier to say and more rhythmic than the alternatives, meaning it works better as an interjection (a word that expresses an emotion such as anger or surprise).Previous and Next Sayings
Test Your Knowledge of English Proverbs and Idioms
Ready for the Test?
More Proverbs, Sayings, and Idioms
Help Us To Improve Grammar Monster
- Do you disagree with something on this page?
- Did you spot a typo?
Next lesson >