what in the sam hill meaning

"What in the Sam Hill" is an American English slang phrase that is used as a euphemism or minced oath for "the devil" or "hell" personified). The phrase is used to express surprise, confusion, or frustration. The origin of the phrase is uncertain, and there are several theories about its origin. Some sources suggest that the phrase could have originated from a mercantile store owner named Sam Hill in Prescott, Arizona, who offered a vast and diverse inventory of goods, and people began using the term "what in the Sam Hill is that?" to describe something they found odd or unusual, just like the inventory found in Sam Hills store). Another theory suggests that the phrase could have originated from a surveyor named Samuel W. Hill, who allegedly used such foul language that his name became a euphemism for swear words). However, the fact that "Father of Good Roads" Samuel Hill hadnt been born when the figure of speech first appeared in a publication rules out the possibility that he was the original). Other sources claim that the phrase could possibly have come from a person or a character. The phrase has become a part of the American language and is still used today.