2007-10-28 04:25:58 · 10 answers · asked by Anonymous in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
This American phrase has been in circulation since the latter part of the 19th century, although its use faded throughout the 20th century and it is now something of an anachronism. The first example of it that I can find is in Rose Terry Cooke's book of short stories Huckleberries Gathered from New England Hills, 1891:
'Heavens to Betsy!' gasped Josiah.
Of course, what we would like to know is who Betsy was. Various theories have been put forward but it is unlikely that she will be identified, if indeed Betsy ever was a real person - which seems doubtful.
The etymologist Charles Earle Funk published Heavens to Betsy! and other curious sayings in 1955. In that he ventured the opinion that the origins of 'Heavens to Betsy' were "completely unsolvable".
2007-10-28 04:32:17 · answer #1 · answered by Bob Thompson 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
There is a book that is called, "Heavens to Betsy", and it explains all kinds of sayings like that. You should look into it! It was so much fun to read! Unfortunately, I don't remember the story. Sorry!
2007-10-28 11:36:25 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think Betsy is the cow.lol
2007-10-28 11:40:03 · answer #3 · answered by Eartha Q 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Great question! Betsy Ross? She's the only Betsy I know of....
2007-10-28 11:29:40 · answer #4 · answered by Hillary B 3 · 1⤊ 1⤋
Oh Betsy was one of my brothers girlfriends in high school...She as darling...8-)
2007-10-28 11:35:00 · answer #5 · answered by Dog Rescuer 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Betsy is Sara's step-sister.
Thanks for asking.
.
2007-10-28 13:19:49 · answer #6 · answered by Ivri_Anokhi 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Am I the only one who has heard "heavens to Mergatroid?" Spelling on that?
Weird. I've never thought about what in the world it means...but it certainly is strange. Perhaps it's a midwestern thing.
2007-10-28 11:31:45 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
Jesus's second wife. She was written out of the official biography.
2007-10-28 11:29:46 · answer #8 · answered by Scumspawn 6 · 1⤊ 3⤋
I have never used that phrase ( nor will i ever) I have never heard anyone say it to me either
2007-10-28 11:28:53 · answer #9 · answered by Robin 2 · 0⤊ 2⤋
http://www.dustcatchers.com/barbie/67betsywetsy.jpg
2007-10-28 11:29:38 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 1⤋