why (hwī, wī), adv., conj., n., pl. whys, interj. adv.

Understanding the Context

for what? for what reason, cause, or purpose?: Why did you behave so badly? conj. for what cause or reason: I don't know why he is leaving.

Key Insights

for which; on account of which (usually after reason to introduce a relative clause): the reason why he refused to go. the reason for which: That is why he returned. n. a question concerning the ...