iffen
Americanconjunction
Etymology
Origin of iffen
1930–35; if + -en, of uncertain origin, perhaps an 2 (hence a variant of archaic an if ) or in’ ( see -ing 2), extracted from conjunctional uses of considering, excepting, etc.; cf. gin 5
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Recall it to my mind iffen ever I forget, Philly.
From Time Magazine Archive
“In the Fen, iffen they give you something special, it be a kick in your buttie. “But that’s a pretty thing you got,” he added politely.
From "Gathering Blue" by Lois Lowry
“Some things I took before the burning, for you to have iffen they let you stay.”
From "Gathering Blue" by Lois Lowry
“I ’preciates you doing it, sir, but how’s I s’pose to learn iffen I don’t know what you talking ’bout?”
From "The Journey of Little Charlie" by Christopher Paul Curtis
“I be whipped iffen I don’t finish the fire twiggies.”
From "Gathering Blue" by Lois Lowry
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Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
