why

[ wahy, hwahy ]

adverb

1. for what? for what reason, cause, or purpose?:

   Why did you behave so badly?

conjunction

1. for what cause or reason:

   I don't know why he is leaving.

2. for which; on account of which (usually after reason to introduce a relative clause):

   the reason why he refused to go.

3. the reason for which:

   That is why he returned.

noun

, plural whys.

1. a question concerning the cause or reason for which something is done, achieved, etc.:

   a child's unending hows and whys.

2. the cause or reason:

   the whys and wherefores of a troublesome situation.

interjection

1. (used as an expression of surprise, hesitation, etc., or sometimes a mere expletive):

   Why, it's all gone!

why

/ waɪ /

adverb

1. 1. for what reason, purpose, or cause?

      why are you here?

   2. ( used in indirect questions )

      tell me why you're here

pronoun

1. for or because of which

   there is no reason why he shouldn't come

noun

1. usually plural the reason, purpose, or cause of something (esp in the phrase the whys and wherefores )

interjection

1. an introductory expression of surprise, disagreement, indignation, etc

   why, don't be silly!

Usage Note

See reason.

Word History and Origins

Origin of why¹

First recorded before 900; Middle English; Old English hwī, hwȳ, instrumental case of hwæt what; cognate with Old Norse hvī

Word History and Origins

Origin of why¹

Old English hwī; related to Old Norse hvī, Gothic hveileiks what kind of, Latin quī

Example Sentences

"Force ourselves to reach out and find out why someone feels the way they do and make the choices they make without prejudging them a monster."

From Salon

When the future looks bad, why save for it when you can enjoy your money now?

From Salon

Liu, who lives in Manhattan, elaborated on why her library card, spur-of-the-moment theatergoing and riding her bicycle are essential to her well-being.

From New York Times

“My love of Shakespeare grew up from my father talking to me about Shakespeare, and why he was passionate about Shakespeare, and why he thought Shakespeare endured, and quoting Shakespeare,” he said.

From New York Times

Johnson piled up four steals by halftime, showing a glimpse of why Cronin had labeled him a potential candidate for defensive player of the year.

From Los Angeles Times