Definition of whether

< whet

whetstone >

wheth·er    (hwr, w-) KEY 

CONJUNCTION:

1. Used in indirect questions to introduce one alternative: We should find out whether the museum is open. See Usage Notes at doubt, if.
2. Used to introduce alternative possibilities: Whether she wins or whether she loses, this is her last tournament.
3. Either: He passed the test, whether by skill or luck.

PRONOUN:
Archaic

Which: "We came in full View of a great Island or Continent, (for we knew not whether)" (Jonathan Swift).

IDIOM:
whether or no

Regardless of circumstances.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English, from Old English hwether; see k^wo- in Indo-European roots