Definition & Meaning of "criminy"in English

What is the origin of the exclamation "criminy" and how is it used?

Criminy is an exclamation used to express surprise, shock, or disbelief. It appeared in American and British English in the 19th century as a mild euphemism for "Christ," allowing speakers to react strongly without offending religious sensibilities. People used it in everyday speech, literature, and comics to convey astonishment or disbelief in a lighthearted way. Today it is inoffensive, somewhat old-fashioned, and whimsical, often adding a playful or emphatic tone to reactions of surprise or shock.