in heaven's name

in heaven's name

A phrase of exasperation used to emphasize a question. What in heaven's name are you doing in here? The car needs a new engine, but where in heaven's name are we going to get the money for it?

See also: name

in ˈGod’s/ˈHeaven’s name

,

in the name of ˈGod/ˈHeaven

used especially in questions to show that you are angry, surprised or shocked: What in God’s name was that noise? ♢ Where in the name of Heaven have you been?

See also: name