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what's

American  
[hwuhts, hwots, wuhts, wots, hwuhts, wuhts] / ʰwʌts, ʰwɒts, wʌts, wɒts, ʰwəts, wəts /
  1. contraction of what is or what has:

    What's the matter? What's been done?

  2. contraction of what does: What's she do for a living?


Usage

See contraction.

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Investors, according to experts, are really enthralled by SpaceX founder and CEO Elon Musk’s star power — or what’s been referred to as a “Musk premium” — and vision of the future.

From MarketWatch • May 21, 2026

In true “defend forward” spirit, it can also help cut off foreign trolls and state-backed hackers from what’s needed to run an influence operation, like internet access, servers and accounts.

From Salon • May 21, 2026

I believe that one of my roles, as someone harmed by this regime and now living in exile, is to speak out on behalf of those who have no voice, to talk about what's happening.

From Barron's • May 21, 2026

His pioneering rocket company SpaceX filed Wednesday for what’s expected to be the largest initial public offering in history, potentially raising at least $75 billion and valuing the company at well over $1 trillion.

From Los Angeles Times • May 20, 2026

I know he’s not saying anything aloud, yet I also know I’m hearing exactly what’s in his head.

From "Clairboyance" by Kristiana Kahakauwila

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