whatever

1 determiner, pronoun

1 any or all of the things that are wanted, needed, or possible: Help yourself to whatever you want. | Jake's dad told him he could have whatever he wanted for Christmas.

2 used to say that it is not important what happens, what you do etc because it does not change the situation: Whatever I suggest, he always disagrees. | The building must be saved whatever the cost. | whatever you do spoken: Don't, whatever you do, let anyone see that letter.

3 spoken used to say that you do not know the exact meaning or name of someone or something: Why don't you invite Steve, or whatever he's called, to supper?

4 ... or whatever spoken used after naming things on a list to mean other things of the same kind: Anyone seen carrying boxes, bags, or whatever was stopped by the police. | ...and whatever else: Bring waterproof clothing, boots, and whatever else.

5 spoken used to show that you are angry or surprised when making a statement or asking a question: Whatever can he mean? | whatever next! (=used to show surprise): “Joan's learning Sanskrit.” “Whatever next!”

6 spoken used to tell someone that you do not care or are not interested when they ask you something: “Shall I call you tonight or tomorrow?” “Whatever.”

7 whatever you say/whatever you think spoken used to tell someone that you agree with them or will do what they want, often when you do not really agree or want to do it: “I want to go camping, just for a change.” “OK, whatever you say.”

2 adverb used to emphasize a negative statement; whatsoever: She gave no sign whatever of what she was thinking. 3 adjective

1 of any possible kind: I'll take whatever help I can get.

2 of some kind, but you are not sure what: Ellen's refusing to come, for whatever reason.