whatten

adjective

what·​ten

variants or whatn or less commonly whaten

ˈ(h)wätᵊn,

-wə- also -wȯ-

or whatna

-tnə

1

dialectal : what kind of

2

dialectal : what

Word History

Etymology

Middle English (northern dialect) whatkin, from what entry 3 + kin kindred, kind of

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