ENGLISH
REFERENCE

Jesus, Mary and Joseph

idiom
Meaning

Expletive, used in surprise, in disgust, or to add emphasis, particularly by Catholics.


Origin

disputed origin

From origins in prayer, reciting the names of the Holy Family (Jesus, Mary, and Joseph) and calling to them for intercession.

Examples
SIMPLE

Jesus, Mary and Joseph, you scared me!

CONTEXTUAL

Jesus, Mary and Joseph, look at the size of that bill for just one dinner.

COMPLEX

Jesus, Mary and Joseph, I cannot believe you actually agreed to work on such a dangerous project.

Anchors to
Related idioms7entries
  1. 01

    come to Jesus

    To experience or display a conversion or recommitment to Christianity or to undergo a related ritual, especially a public confession of one's sins or weaknesses.

  2. 02

    have Jesus in one's heart

    To be a firm believer in the Christian faith.

  3. 03

    make baby Jesus cry

    To provoke a negative reaction due to being offensive, unpleasant, immoral, etc.

  4. 04

    Mary Celeste

    A ship found empty of all people, in good condition, seemingly abandoned on the high seas; a ghost ship.

  5. 05

    sweet Jesus

    Used to add emphasis, particularly by Catholics.

  6. 06

    sweet Mary

    Used to add emphasis, particularly by Catholics.

  7. 07

    sweet Mary mother of God

    Used to add emphasis, particularly by Catholics.

© 2026 English Reference