why Meaning, Definition & Usage

noun the cause or intention underlying an action or situation, especially in the phrase `the whys and wherefores'
wherefore.

OE. whi, why, AS. hwi, hw, instrumental case of hwa, hwæt; akin to Icel. hvi why, Dan. & Sw. hvi; cf. Goth. hw. . See Who.

For what cause, reason, or purpose; on what account; wherefore; -- used interrogatively. See the Note under What, pron., 1.
Turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways; for why will ye die, O house of Israel? Ezek. xxxiii. 11.
For which; on account of which; -- used relatively.
No ground of enmity between us known Why he should mean me ill or seek to harm. Milton.

Turn the discourse; I have a reason why I would not have you speak so tenderly. Dryden.
The reason or cause for which; that on account of which; on what account; as, I know not why he left town so suddenly; -- used as a compound relative. ✍ Why is sometimes used as an interjection or an expletive in expression of surprise or content at a turn of affairs; used also in calling. "Why, Jessica!" Shak.
If her chill heart I can not move, Why, I'll enjoy the very love. Cowley.
Sometimes, also, it is used as a noun.
The how and the why and the where. Goldsmith.