Old-style "Yikes!" NYT

The crossword clue "Old-style "Yikes!"" with the answer "EGADS" refers to a historical exclamation used to express surprise, shock, or dismay. The term "egads" is an old-fashioned interjection that originates from the phrase "By God's wounds," which was used in earlier English as a mild oath or expression of astonishment.

Over time, "egads" evolved into a more generalized exclamation, and it is now considered somewhat archaic or quaint. The clue plays on the historical and somewhat theatrical nature of the term, contrasting it with the more modern "yikes" to evoke a sense of historical surprise or emphasis.

The crossword clue "Old-style "Yikes!"" with the answer "GOLLY" refers to an exclamation that was commonly used in the past as a mild expression of surprise, shock, or amazement.

"Golly" is a word that was frequently used in the early 20th century and conveys a sense of astonishment similar to "oh my" or "wow." Its usage has declined in modern times, making it an example of old-fashioned or quaint language. The clue plays on the nostalgia for how people used to express their reactions more formally or less emphatically than contemporary exclamations.

The crossword clue "Old-style "Yikes!"" with the answer "ZOUNDS" refers to an antiquated exclamation of surprise or shock. "Zounds" is a contraction of "God's wounds," a phrase used historically to express strong emotion, such as astonishment or indignation.

This expression dates back to the 16th and 17th centuries and was considered a mild oath or expletive. It reflects how language has evolved over time, with modern expressions replacing such archaic terms. In the context of the clue, "zounds" serves as a historically rich example of how people once reacted with dramatic flair to unexpected events or revelations.

The crossword clue "Old-style "Yikes!"" with the answer "GREAT SCOTT" refers to a vintage exclamation of surprise or astonishment. The phrase "Great Scott" is an old-fashioned expression used to convey a strong reaction to something unexpected or remarkable.

It gained popularity in the 19th century and was famously used by characters in literature and media of that era. The term "Scott" in the expression likely refers to the 19th-century British figure Sir Walter Scott, though the exact origin of why his name was used is less clear. In modern times, "Great Scott" has become somewhat quaint and nostalgic, evoking a sense of historical drama and theatricality in reactions to surprising events.