What — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms
Meaning & Definition of What
What (pronoun)
- —used as an interrogative expressing inquiry about the identity, nature, or value of an object or matter
- —often used to ask for repetition of an utterance or part of an utterance not properly heard or understood
- —used as an interrogative expressing inquiry about the character, nature, occupation, position, or role of a person
What (adverb)
- in what respect, how
- —used to introduce prepositional phrases in parallel construction or a prepositional phrase that expresses cause and usually has more than one object—used principally before phrases beginning with with
- why
What (adjective)
- —used as an interrogative expressing inquiry about the identity, nature, or value of a person, object, or matter
- how remarkable or striking for good or bad qualities —used especially in exclamatory utterances and dependent clauses
- the … that, as much or as many … as
What (interjection) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms
-
how surprising, doubtful, or unbelievable
"what! I can't believe we won!"
Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for What
The most common words with a similar meaning to What:
Origin & Etymology of What
Middle English, from Old English hwæt, neuter of hwā who who
First known use: before 12th century
Vocabulary Lists & Topics for What
- CEFR level: A1 English Vocabulary — Page 20
- Topics: Grammar Function Words
Words & Phrases Containing What
Frequently Asked Questions about What
What does "What" mean?
"What" means —used as an interrogative expressing inquiry about the identity, nature, or value of an object or matter. As an a pronoun, an adverb, an adjective and an interjection, it is defined as: —used as an interrogative expressing inquiry about the identity, nature, or value of an object or matter.
What is another word for "What"?
Other words for "What" include ah, aha, come on, fie, indeed, my word, no and pshaw. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "What" you intend.
What are different ways to say "What"?
There are 30 words and phrases with a similar meaning to "What". Common alternatives include ah, aha, come on, fie, indeed, my word, no, pshaw, well and why.
How do you use "What" in a sentence?
Examples of "What" in a sentence: "what! I can't believe we won!".
Is "What" a noun, verb, or adjective?
"What" can be used as a pronoun, an adverb, an adjective and an interjection, depending on the context.
Is "What" useful for IELTS, TOEFL, and other English exams?
As an A1-level word, "What" is typical of Cambridge A1 Movers (Young Learners), TOEIC Listening & Reading 120+.
How do you pronounce "What"?
"What" is pronounced /ˈ(h)wät/.
What is the origin of the word "What"?
"What" comes from Middle English, from Old English hwæt, neuter of hwā who who. First known use: before 12th century.