Idioms for what

Origin of what

before 900; Middle English; Old English hwæt; cognate with German was, Dutch wat, Old Norse hvat; akin to Gothic hwa, Latin quod, Greek

usage note for what

25. See doubt.

British Dictionary definitions for what for

Word Origin for what

Old English hwæt; related to Old Frisian whet, Old High German hwaz (German was), Old Norse hvatr

usage for what

The use of are in sentences such as what we need are more doctors is common, although many people think is should be used: what we need is more doctors

Idioms and Phrases with what for (1 of 2)

what for

1

For what purpose or reason, why, as in I know you're going to England, but what for? [Mid-1700s]

2

A punishment or scolding, as in You'll get what for from Mom if she catches you smoking, or The teacher really gave Bud what for. [Colloquial; second half of 1800s]

Idioms and Phrases with what for (2 of 2)

what