We use cookies to enhance your experience on our website. By continuing to use our website, you are agreeing to our use of cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time. Find out more

Subscriber login

Library card login

Other

Login Athens/Access Management Federation

X Close menu

Dictionary Language resources

jingo

Syllabification: (jin·go)

Pronunciation: /ˈjiNGgō/

Definition of jingo

noun (plural jingoes)

dated, chiefly derogatory

a vociferous supporter of policy favoring war, especially in the name of patriotism.

Phrases

by jingo!: an exclamation of surprise.

Origin:

late 17th century (originally a conjuror's word): by jingo (and the noun sense) come from a popular song adopted by those supporting the sending of a British fleet into Turkish waters to resist Russia in 1878. The chorus ran: “We don't want to fight, yet by Jingo! if we do, We've got the ships, we've got the men, and got the money too.”