During my explorations into frequently misspelled words, a strange beast reared its head: the word “Weither.” Is this even a real word? What does it mean? If it’s spelled wrong, what is the correct spelling? Let’s find out!
As background, my name is Lillie, and I’ve been an English teacher for almost twenty years. I’m also an artist, so all the cartoons in my lessons, such as “Do You Capitalize Seasons?” are hand-drawn by yours truly. Now, it’s time to learn about our mystery word!
“Weither”
In fact, the word “weither” isn’t a word in English at all! What is it, then? It’s simply a misspelled version of several other possible words the person using it is ACTUALLY trying to write. Let’s explore those options now.
1. Whether or Weather
Most likely, when someone writes “weither,” they’re either trying to say “whether” (which essentially means “if”), or “weather,” (which is talking about what’s happening in the sky or atmosphere, such as rain or heat). See my full, illustrated explanation of “Weather vs. Whether” if you want to know more!
2. Either
It’s possible that the word “weither” is a mistyping of the word “either” (meaning picking between two things), as it just has a “w” placed in front of it — which creates a totally different and separate (not seperate) word.
3. Wither
The word “wither” refers to something shriveling up and drooping, as a plant does during hot summers with no rain. Though this word isn’t uncommon, it’s used far less often than “whether,” “weather,” or “either,” so it’s truly (not truley) a less likely candidate.
4. Whither
It’s unlikely the person is trying to write “whither” when they type or text “weither,” but it’s worth explaining. The word “whither” is an old-fashioned adverb or conjunction meaning “to what place.”
It’s definitely (see my article on the spelling of definitely) often used with the equally old-timey word, “thither,” as in Shakespeare’s play, Henry IV: “Whither I go, thither shall you go too.”
VIDEO: Is Weither a Word?
“Weither” in German
Though “weither” isn’t a real word in English, it may be relevant information to know that it IS a word in the German language. The meaning is “(from) far away.” In German, however, “W” is usually pronounced like “V.”
“Weither,” in Sum
I hope this tutorial on the dilemma of “weither” has been useful as well as enjoyable. The guidelines also work for similar misspellings such as “wiether” or “waither.” All of them are likely just trying to spell “whether,” “weather,” or (less likely), other words such as “either” or “wither.”
What would you like me to illustrate and explain next? I’m always grateful (not “greatful“) for your ideas. Do share!
Want more? Check out my articles on how to spell rhythm, and the surprising answer to whether the correct spelling is fiery or firey.
For more spelling lessons that have to do with “ei,” click on over to my article explaining, “Is It Spelled Receive or Recieve?”
The author and artist, Lillie Marshall, is a National Board Certified Teacher of English who has been a public school educator since 2003, and an experienced Reiki practitioner since 2018. All art on this site is original and hand-drawn by Lillie. She launched DrawingsOf.com Educational Cartoons in 2020, building upon the success of her other sites, AroundTheWorldL.com (established 2009), TeachingTraveling.com (founded 2010), and ReikiColors.com. Subscribe to Lillie’s monthly newsletter, and follow @WorldLillie on social media to stay connected!
