the hell

interjection
UK: /ðə hel/
US: /ðə hel/

  1. Used to express surprise, anger, disbelief, or frustration.

    1. What the hell are you doing here? [ ] [ ]
    2. Where the hell did you get that ridiculous idea; it's absurd. [ ] [ ]

Synonyms

why how what
the hell adverb

  1. Used to emphasize a question, often expressing annoyance or disbelief.

    1. Why the hell not? [ ] [ ]
    2. Who the hell told you that nonsense; it's completely wrong. [ ] [ ]
the hell noun

  1. Used to indicate a complete lack of concern or care.

    1. I don't give the hell. [ ] [ ]
    2. He doesn't care the hell about anyone else's feelings at all. [ ] [ ]

Frequently Asked Questions

The phonetic transcription of "the hell" is /ðə hel/ in British English and /ðə hel/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "the hell": why, how, what.

Example usage of "the hell": "What the hell are you doing here?". More examples on the page.