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used to show affection or add humor when addressing a person
American
Humorous
Idiom
InformalWhat is the origin of the idiom "son of a gun" and when to use it?
The idiom "son of a gun" has originated from the practice of allowing women to live aboard naval ships, and sometimes giving birth on board. In this context, a child born on a ship would be referred to as a "son of a gun." It is a colloquial expression that is often used in a humorous or lighthearted manner. It is typically used to playfully refer to someone, usually a male, in a slightly exaggerated or affectionate way.
used to refer to a person one is very annoyed with or hates
American
IdiomInformalWhat is the origin of the idiom "son of a gun" and when to use it?
The idiom "son of a gun" is believed to have originated from nautical terminology, where it referred to a child born on a ship, potentially to a woman who was not an official crew member. Today, it is commonly used as an idiomatic expression to refer to a person one is annoyed with or dislikes in a somewhat playful or mildly irritated manner.
used to express one's annoyance or surprise
