Used as an oath or exclamation expressing asseveration, surprise, etc.
Origin
Mid 18th century; earliest use found in William Shenstone (1714–1763), writer. Origin uncertain. Probably an alteration of zounds, perhaps after Zookers, Zoodikers.
Definition of zoonters in US English:
zoonters
exclamationˈzuːntəz
rare, archaic
Used as an oath or exclamation expressing asseveration, surprise, etc.
Origin
Mid 18th century; earliest use found in William Shenstone (1714–1763), writer. Origin uncertain. Probably an alteration of zounds, perhaps after Zookers, Zoodikers.