ENGLISH
REFERENCE

holy shit

idiom
Meaning

Expression of terror, awe, surprise, astonishment, etc., often at something seen for the first time or remembered immediately before using this term.


Origin

disputed origin

From holy and shit.

Examples
SIMPLE

Holy shit, look at how fast that car is driving.

CONTEXTUAL

When he saw the massive bill for the car repairs, he whispered, holy shit, that is expensive.

COMPLEX

Upon witnessing the sheer scale of the mountain range for the first time, she could only mutter, holy shit, under her breath.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    and shit

    Used after one or more listed objects, attributes or processes to indicate additional others.

  2. 02

    beat the shit out of

    To beat (someone) severely.

  3. 03

    does the Pope shit in the woods

    Obviously! Rhetorical question in response to a question where the answer is an emphatic yes.

  4. 04

    don't shit where you eat

    One should not cause trouble in places, groups, or situations that one holds as important or necessary to one's happiness or well-being.

  5. 05

    dumb shit

    Alternative spelling of dumbshit.

  6. 06

    eat shit

    An expression of discontent or aggravation to another party.

  7. 07

    everything one touches turns to shit

    Everything someone uses or does fails or becomes worse.

  8. 08

    flip shit

    To freak out.

Last updated April 17, 2026