Collins COBUILD Advanced Learner's English Dictionary - golly

1. Some people say golly to indicate that they are very surprised by something. (INFORMAL, OLD-FASHIONED) ‘Golly,’ he says, ‘Isn’t it exciting!’ EXCLAM c darkgreen]feelings 2. Some people say by golly to emphasize that something did happen or should happen. (INFORMAL, OLD-FASHIONED) By golly we can do something about it this time. EXCLAM c darkgreen]emphasis