what for
For what purpose or reason, why, as in I know you're going to England, but what for? [Mid-1700s]
Words Nearby what for
The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
How to use what for in a sentence
Dreer would be sure to go to Josh and Penny'd get what-for; and then it would be good-bye, scholarship!
Left Tackle Thayer | Ralph Henry BarbourWe had the immortal cinch on him, and if he got fresh, two or three of us would pitch on him and give him "what-for."
The Road | Jack LondonGive you a lot of invaluable suggestions as to how to mix up little 'what-for-you's.'
Stubble | George LoomsYou can take it from me that this is patent, double-extra-what-for.
Wounds in the rain | Stephen CraneI think it's what-for and because that make it so much better.
The Other Girls | Mrs. A. D. T. Whitney
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