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Added 10 October 2026

whereas

/wɛəɹˈaz/ adverb

First recorded: 14th century Wiktionary

adverb Definition from Wiktionary (CC BY-SA). Pronunciation from Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org. More about whereas at Wordnik → Where our words come from →

Where (that).

conjunction

In contrast; whilst on the contrary; although.
He came first in the race, whereas his brother came last.
It being the fact that; inasmuch as. (Often used to begin recitals; sometimes emboldened or emphasized as a signifier.)
Whereas you've proven your worth, you're welcome to join the team.

noun

A clause, as in legal documents, stating whereas.

Origin

From where + as (“that”); first attested in the meaning of "where" in the 14th century. Compare thereas.

From Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org (CC BY-SA)

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