Related to old norse hvī, gothic. Why synonyms, why pronunciation, why translation, english dictionary definition of why. Used to express surprise or anger:
Take a look at the uses of. Explore the history, meaning, and necessity of the question that. How to use why in a sentence.
The meaning of why is for what cause, reason, or purpose. Why as an interrogative adverb asks questions about the reason for something, gives suggestions, or expresses annoyance. See examples of why used in a sentence. Meanings, etymology, pronunciation and more in the oxford english dictionary
For what reason, cause, or purpose?. An introductory expression of surprise, disagreement, indignation, etc: Why, adv., int., & n. Why? a question as old as humanity, and as relevant today as ever.
You use why with 'not' in questions in order to express your annoyance or anger.