I. R ˈhw]erˌfō(ə)r, -fȯ(ə)r also ˈw] sometimes ]a(a)rˌ- or -_fər; -R ]eəˌfōə, -fȯ(ə) sometimes ]a(a)əˌ- or -_fə, +V “ or -fō(ə)r or -fȯ(ə)r or -_fər adverb
Etymology: Middle English wherfor, wherfore for which, for what reason
1. : for what reason : for what end or object
wherefore do I assume these royalties — John Milton
2. archaic : in consequence of which : why
II. conjunction
also where·for “\
Etymology: Middle English wherfor, wherfore, from wherfor, wherfore, adverb
: for that reason : and in consequence of that fact or consideration : so
the Lord … rested the seventh day; wherefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day — Exod 20:11 (Authorized Version)
III. noun
( -s )
Etymology: wherefore (I)
: an answer or statement giving an explanation : cause , reason
they say every why hath a wherefore — Shakespeare
totally in the dark as to the whys and wherefores of her sister's moods — Mrs. Humphry Ward