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If wherewithal sounds like three words smashed together, that’s because it is—sort of. Wherewithal combines where and withal, an adverb from Middle English that is itself a combination of with and all. In the past, wherewithal was used as a conjunction meaning "with or by means of which" and as a pronoun meaning "that with or by which." Today, however, it is almost always used as a noun to refer to the means or resources a person or entity has at their disposal. It refers especially to financial resources, but other means such as social influence, ability, and emotional capacity may also be termed as "wherewithal."
Examples of wherewithal in a Sentence
Karl Schneider, IndyStar, 31 Mar. 2026
While the Panthers are keeping their options open — including holdover lineman Nick Samac — Fortner could bring some wherewithal to the line.
—Mike Kaye
march 30, Charlotte Observer, 30 Mar. 2026
Someone even had the wherewithal to steal the lantern attached to a wall near the restaurant’s entrance.
—Stephanie Breijo, Los Angeles Times, 24 Mar. 2026
Denver has enviable financial wherewithal, the cap room to be flexible and the stability in personnel atop their football operation that makes following a plan and process easier — though not a guarantee.
—Parker Gabriel, Denver Post, 4 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for wherewithal
Cite this Entry
“Wherewithal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/wherewithal. Accessed 5 Apr. 2026.
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