wherefore
About Our Definitions: All forms of a word (noun, verb, etc.) are now displayed on one page.


1where·fore

adverb \ˈhwer-ˌfr, ˈwer-\

Definition of WHEREFORE

1
: for what reason or purpose : why

Examples of WHEREFORE

  1. <it was getting late, and wherefore we decided to move on>

Origin of WHEREFORE

Middle English wherfor, wherfore, from where, wher + for, fore for
First Known Use: 13th century

Related to WHEREFORE

2wherefore

noun

Definition of WHEREFORE

: an answer or statement giving an explanation : reason <wants to know the whys and wherefores>

Examples of WHEREFORE

  1. <demanded to know the whys and wherefores for the decision>

First Known Use of WHEREFORE

1590

Browse

Next Word in the Dictionary: wherefrom
Previous Word in the Dictionary: wherefor
All Words Near: wherefore

Seen & Heard

What made you want to look up wherefore? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Name That Thing

Take Our 10-Question Quiz

#6: Flabbergast
: to overwhelm with shock,
surprise, or wonder
See All Top 25 Entries »
Get Our Free Apps
Voice Search, Favorites,
Word of the Day, and More
Join Us on FB & Twitter
Get the Word of the Day and More