/hwedh"euhr, wedh"-/ , conj.
1. (used to introduce the first of two or more alternatives, and sometimes repeated before the second or later alternative, usually with the correlative or ): It matters little whether we go or stay. Whether we go or whether we stay, the result is the same.
2. (used to introduce a single alternative, the other being implied or understood, or some clause or element not involving alternatives): See whether or not she has come. I doubt whether we can do any better.
3. Archaic. (used to introduce a question presenting alternatives, usually with the correlative or ).
4. whether or no , under whatever circumstances; regardless: He threatens to go whether or no.
pron. Archaic.
5. which or whichever (of two)?
[ bef. 900; ME; OE hwether, hwaether, equiv. to hwe- (base of hwa WHO) + -ther comp. suffix; c. ON hvatharr, Goth hwathar ]
Usage . See if .