"Putting the whammy on" is a colloquial expression that originated in American slang, particularly in the mid-20th century. This idiom is used to describe an action or situation where someone is attempting to jinx or cast a spell on someone or something to bring about bad luck or misfortune.
The phrase "putting the whammy on" implies a superstitious belief that a person can exert an unseen supernatural influence over someone or something to cause harm or negative outcomes. It can refer to actions such as hexing, cursing, or casting an evil eye, often without any concrete evidence or logical explanation.
When someone says they are "putting the whammy on" a person or an object, they are indicating that they are attempting to bring about misfortune or bad luck, either through spoken words or nonverbal actions. The phrase is commonly used in a lighthearted or playful manner, often in jest or as part of humorous banter.
This idiom is often associated with superstitions and folk beliefs, where individuals may attempt to ward off or protect themselves from the supposed negative effects of the whammy through various charms, rituals, or counterhexes.
Overall, "putting the whammy on" is an informal expression that epitomizes an attempt to inflict bad luck or misfortune on someone or something through supernatural means, typically used in a light-hearted or humorous context.
