wherewithal

American  

[hwair-with-awl, -with-, wair-] / ˈʰwɛər wɪðˌɔl, -wɪθ-, ˈwɛər- /

noun

1. that with which to do something; means or supplies for the purpose or need, especially money.

   the wherewithal to pay my rent.

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adverb

1. by means of which; out of which.

2. Archaic. wherewith.

pronoun

1. wherewith.

wherewithal British  

noun

1. necessary funds, resources, or equipment (for something or to do something)

   these people lack the wherewithal for a decent existence

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pronoun

1. a less common word for wherewith wherewith

Etymology

Origin of wherewithal

First recorded in 1525–35; where + withal

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Explanation

If you have the wherewithal to do something, it means you've got what you need to make it happen. Another word for wherewithal is resources, which can mean money, energy, support, or some other necessary means. If you have the wherewithal to build a new house, it can mean you have the knowledge and patience to do it yourself, or that you've got the money to pay someone to build it for you. The word combines where and withal — a now-obscure word that means "in addition." Don't forget to spell it with only one l.

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

wherewithal

“He’s got the experience and the wherewithal to lead this state.”

From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 21, 2026

The state intends to sublet space to startups that might not have the wherewithal to commit to long-term leases.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 20, 2026

Any team could be doing what the Dodgers are doing if they had the wherewithal.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 8, 2026

The other positive part of this story: You both have money to invest in property, or at least the wherewithal to take out loans collectively, so I assume his credit rating is relatively good.

From MarketWatch ● Apr. 16, 2026

With little or no wherewithal for being left alone in a room, Mary Jane stood up and walked over to the window.

From "Nine Stories" by J. D. Salinger

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