what-do-you-call-it

noun

variants or what-do-you-call-them or less commonly what-do-you-call-her or what-do-you-call-him

ˈ(h)wä|tə⸗ˌ⸗⸗,

-wə-,

-wȯ-,

|tdə-

plural -s

: a thing or person that the speaker cannot (as from not knowing or from forgetting) or does not wish to name

hand me one of those little what-do-you-call-thems

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now