ENGLISH
REFERENCE

what not

idiom
Meaning

Something of the kind, whatever (used to terminate a vague list).


Examples
SIMPLE

We bought snacks, drinks, and what not for the party.

CONTEXTUAL

The garage is full of old tools, boxes, broken chairs, and what not.

COMPLEX

The attic contained a collection of dusty heirlooms, forgotten letters, antique photographs, and what not, all preserved from a bygone era.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    ain't what it used to was

    Is not what it used to be; (expressing nostalgia).

  2. 02

    come what may

    In spite of anything that might happen; whatever may occur.

  3. 03

    do exactly what it says on the tin

    To do what is described or what one would expect, with no further explanation needed.

  4. 04

    do what

    An intensified version of what? or huh?, expressing surprise or lack of comprehension

  5. 05

    get what one asked for

    Synonym of get what's coming to one.

  6. 06

    give someone what-for

    To admonish or berate; to speak angrily at somebody.

  7. 07

    give what for

    To scold; to punish, especially verbally.

  8. 08

    guess what

    Used to introduce a surprising outcome or one that the hearer is not expected to try to guess.

Last updated April 17, 2026