son of a gun

S

son of a gun

Meaning

  • to address someone in an affectionate way
  • to call someone in a jocular or appreciative manner

Example Sentences

  1. The son of a gun managed to pass all the subjects this time along! I am so happy!
  2. I know a son of a gun who will take care of this problem for you.
  3. That son of a gun has a mean streak and a pure heart.
  4. The son of a gun did wonderfully well at arranging this party and ensuring that everybody has a great time.
  5. You son of a gun! You did all this for me?
  6. He is such a son of a gun to have travelled so far to see us.
  7. You son of a gun! Come here and give your uncle a hug!

Origin

The phrase is an exclamatory noun which can be used as a compliment or to encourage someone. It has been used as a slang to refer to someone since the 1800’s and probably originated from the mafia world where a son of a gun could literally mean the boss’s offspring. The noun is still in use to refer to someone who is an ally. In 2014, a film was titled by this phrase.

Share your opinions2 Opinions

Marty, in that case (and in many cases) it was presumably used as a more family friendly replacement for “son of a b***h”, lol

‒ Banana March 17, 2023

My dad always said this in a mad way when I was a little girl, does this mean anything?

‒ Marty DL February 24, 2023

What's on your mind?

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