pronunciation note: Usually pronounced (hwɒt ) for meanings [sense 2], [sense 4], [sense 5] and [sense 18]. You use what in questions when you ask for specific information about something that you do not know. What do you want? What did she tell you, anyway? 'Has something happened?'—'Indeed it has.'—'What?' We use what to ask questions and as a pronoun and determiner. … We can use what to ask for information about things and actions: … We can use what in informal situations to ask someone to repeat something if we don’t hear it or understand it: … We can ask emphatic questions using whatever or what on earth to express shock or surprise. A Simple Definition is available from our Learner's Dictionary to help you understand the meaning faster. What is this? What is wealth without friends? What does he earn? What hath God wrought? You said what? What do you think I am, a fool? What is she, that all our swains commend her? William Shakespeare. What, no breakfast? (used in questions as a request for information): What is your phone number? What is your wife's name? What is the matter? (used in questions to ask about the character, origin, identity, or worth of a person or thing): What is the meaning of life? What is wealth without friends? Hosted by WhatsApp 2026 © WhatsApp LLC Privacy & Terms In cases where both what and which are possible, with similar meaning, what is preferred for open-ended choices, while which is preferred for choices from a closed group or set. For example, Which one of these do you want? not What one of these do you want?. What is a term that is deeply ingrained in the English language. It can represent different things based on its context, ranging from asking questions to emphasizing emotions. Let's break down its meanings and significance in various contexts. Unscramble the secret word in 2 shots. The world's leading online dictionary: English definitions, synonyms, word origins, example sentences, word games, and more. A trusted authority for 25+ years! Log in to WhatsApp Web for simple, reliable and private messaging on your desktop. Send and receive messages and files with ease, all for free. Learn what what means with clear definitions, pronunciation, synonyms, and real-world examples. Simple explanations to help you use what correctly.