Golly Meaning in English
word
/ˈɡɑɫi/
GAH-lee
/ɡˈɒli/
GO-lee
Definition
'Golly' is an old-fashioned exclamation used to show surprise, excitement, or sometimes shock, similar to saying 'wow' or 'oh my'.
Usage & Nuances
'Golly' is informal, somewhat dated, and now sounds innocent or quaint. Used mostly in light-hearted, surprised, or playful contexts, not for strong emotions. Common among older generations or in stories for children. Avoid in formal writing.
Spanish: vaya - caramba - cielosPortuguese (BR): caramba - puxa - nossaPortuguese (PT): bolas - caramba - chiçaChinese (Simplified): 哎呀 - 天哪Chinese (Traditional): 哎呀 - 天哪Hindi: अरे बाप रे - ओहोArabic: يا إلهي - يا للعجبBengali: ওহ - আরে - বাহRussian: ого - батюшки - вот это даJapanese: あら - おや - まあVietnamese: ôi trời - trời ơi - chàKorean: 어머 - 세상에 - 이런Turkish: vay canına - aman - hayretUrdu: ارے - اوہIndonesian: waduh - aduh - astaga
Example Sentences
Golly, that's amazing!
basic
Golly, I forgot my keys at home.
basic
Golly, you did a great job!
basic
Golly, I didn't see that coming!
natural
Golly, it's cold out here tonight.
natural
Golly, that's the third time it's happened this week.
natural