Definition of the word whether

The word "whether" originates from Old English "hweather" or "hwether", which was used to indicate a choice or alternative. It's related to the Old English word "wether", meaning "a decision" or "a choice". Over time, the spelling evolved to "whether", and its meaning expanded to include phrases such as "whether or not", "whether it be", and "whether you like it or not". Today, "whether" is used to introduce an alternative or to indicate a question about the possibility of something occurring. In modern English, "whether" is often used in conditional sentences, such as "I'll go to the party whether you come or not", or "We'll take a trip whether the weather is good or bad". Despite its evolution, "whether" has retained its core meaning of presenting a choice or alternative, making it a fundamental part of our language.