why in God's name

why in God's name

Used to ask a question that emphasizes one's shock, anger, disgust, incredulity, etc. Why in God's name are they here when the party doesn't start for hours? Why in God's name would I want a table that doesn't even stand up anymore? We're just about to sit down for dinner, so why in God's name would you give the kids candy now?
See also: name, why
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
See also:
  • why on earth
  • the hell
  • Who would have thought it?
  • never in my life
  • the chuff
  • hit a (raw) nerve
  • hit/touch a nerve
  • touch a nerve