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?

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Usage

See contraction.

Example Sentences

“We have to do what’s in the interest of preserving the reputation of Harvard, and they all benefit from that,” she said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

“This is what’s needed if you really want to scale the industry.”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 3, 2026

Here’s a look at what’s going on with each income class in this E-shaped economy.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 3, 2026

When the Huskies start running circles against an opponent who has no idea what’s coming next, all that suffering on the practice floor is worth it.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

We don’t fall right into a rhythm the way we used to, and after a couple of blocks I realize what’s changed.

From "Keeping Pace" by Laurie Morrison