Definition & Meaning of "holy Moses"in English

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

Holy Moses is an exclamation used to express astonishment, shock, or amazement. It appeared in English in the 18th to early 19th century as a euphemistic reference to the biblical figure Moses, allowing people to react strongly without directly invoking God. People used it in everyday conversation, literature, and theater to convey surprise or strong emotion politely. Today it sounds old-fashioned, whimsical, and inoffensive, often adding a dramatic or playful tone to expressions of astonishment or amazement.