Cripes

An exclamation expressing surprise, annoyance, or mild exasperation. It's an informal and somewhat antiquated interjection, often considered a softened or euphemistic version of 'Christ'. While its usage has declined, 'cripes' still appears in literature and speech, particularly to evoke a sense of nostalgia or a folksy character. The word serves to inject emotion into a statement without being overly harsh or offensive. Its use is frequently related to the speaker's mild disbelief or frustration at an unexpected event or outcome.

Cripes meaning with examples

• Cripes, I didn't realize it was already so late! Time really flies when you're having fun, or perhaps when you're utterly engrossed in a task. I've got to get going or I'll miss the last train home. Oh well, hopefully, it's not too much of a problem.
• He was so flustered to see how the accident happened that when he came out from the shock he muttered, “Cripes, I can't believe that just happened!” Then he quickly pulled over and grabbed his first aid kit, to check if anyone was hurt.
• When I saw the damage to my car, I exclaimed, 'Cripes! That's going to cost a fortune to fix!' The dent was huge, and the paint was completely scratched. Now I'm going to have to pay all this extra money, what a pain, I should have seen it coming.
• The old man, adjusting his hat, squinted at the sun and muttered, 'Cripes, it's hot today!' It was truly scorching, and his face was getting red. He wiped his brow with a handkerchief. 'I was not expecting this at all, and I think I will stay home for the rest of the day.'