what's with

Idioms  

1. Also, what's up with; what gives with. What is going on with; tell me about or explain it. For example, What's with all the food they're giving away? or What's up with Lee these days? or What gives with Jack? Why is he so glum? This idiom is also sometimes used as a substitute for how are you or what's wrong, as in Hi, Pam, what's with you? or What gives with you—why are you yelling? [Colloquial; c. 1940]

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Example Sentences

So what’s with the paint on her face?

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 11, 2023

“I asked the nurse what’s with the eyes,” Boikiv said.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 25, 2022

And what’s with that creepy metaverse Zuckerberg is trying to lure us into?

From New York Times • Oct. 30, 2021

And what’s with that lens flare just off center?

From Washington Post • Feb. 5, 2020

“So what’s with the garbage bags?” she said.

From "We'll Fly Away" by Bryan Bliss