why
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About Our Definitions: All forms of a word (noun, verb, etc.) are now displayed on one page.1why
adverb \ˈhwī, ˈwī\Definition of WHY
: for what cause, reason, or purpose <why did you do it?>
See Examples of WHY
- Why did you quit your job?
- Why is the sky blue?
- Why didn't you call me?
- Why didn't I think of that?
- “I can't go out tonight.” “Why not?”
Origin of WHY
Middle English, from Old English hwȳ, instr. case of hwæt what — more at what
First Known Use: before 12th century
2why
conjunctionDefinition of WHY
1
: the cause, reason, or purpose for which <know why you did it> <that is why you did it>
2
: for which : on account of which <know the reason why you did it>
Examples of WHY
- I know why he did it.
- It's easy to see why she fell in love with him.
- He's a very good player. That's why he made the team.
- The reason why they succeeded is obvious. They worked really hard.
- Give me one good reason why I should stay.
First Known Use of WHY
before 12th century
3why
noun plural whys
Definition of WHY
2
: a baffling problem : enigma
Examples of WHY
- <asked the whys behind the surprising decision>
- <how one decides that a certain he or she is “the one” is one of the great whys of life>
First Known Use of WHY
13th century
4why
interjectionDefinition of WHY
—used to express mild surprise, hesitation, approval, disapproval, or impatience <why, here's what I was looking for>
Examples of WHY
- <why, what a strange thing to say!>
First Known Use of WHY
1519
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