The origin of whammy is not entirely certain, but it is assumed to have been created by combining wham (a solid blow) with the whimsical -y ending. The first example of whammy in print occured in 1940, …

1. A supernatural spell for subduing an adversary; a hex: put the whammy on someone. 2. A serious or devastating setback: "The triple whammy: government cuts, declining corporate giving, and less …

WHAMMY definition: a devastating blow, setback, or catastrophe. See examples of whammy used in a sentence.

A whammy, a serious setback, such as one caused by a spell, curse or hex. Double or triple whammy, an extra powerful whammy, a term popularized by the Li'l Abner character Evil-Eye Fleegle

WHAMMY definition: 1. a magical spell or power that causes someone to have a difficult or unpleasant time: 2. a…. Learn more.

Whammy is used in expressions such as double whammy and triple whammy to indicate that two or three unpleasant or difficult situations occur at the same time, or occur one after the other.

noun an evil spell “he put the whammy on me” synonyms: curse, hex, jinx see more see less

Definition of whammy noun in Oxford Advanced American Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

Dec 28, 2025 · Noun whammy (plural whammies) a serious or devastating setback an evil spell; a curse or hex (colloquial) The vibrato system of an electric guitar, or just its lever (whammy bar)

Mar 18, 2026 · Curious what does whammy mean? This guide explains the slang meaning, origins, pop culture uses, and real examples so you can use 'whammy' like a pro.