what

The 'what' is one of the most puzzling and ubiquitous entities in the known universe. It has consistently baffled philosophers, scientists, and the occasional intergalactic wanderer. 'What' is often the first word in a series of increasingly despairing words, such as 'where,' 'why,' and the lesser-known 'whither' which is only used by those who have read too much fancy literature or own a time machine. Not to be confused with 'watt,' the unit of power, 'what' can diminish the power of any conversation by requiring the questioner to repeat themselves.

Travel Advice

When traveling the cosmos, carry a pocket universal translator. It can turn your 'whats' into 'oh, I sees' in over fifty million languages.

Where to Find

The 'what' can be stumbled upon in cosmic conversations, at the crossroads of confusion and mystification, or during any exchange with a Vogon (who are not only terrible poets but also notoriously hard to understand).

What to Avoid

Avoid using 'what' in the presence of the Ravenous Bugblatter Beast of Traal, as it might mistake it for an invitation for hors d'oeuvres (you being the hors d'oeuvres). Also, refrain from uttering 'what' in the Great Library of Shhh, as it's likely to result in ejection into the nearest black hole.

Fun Fact

The record for the most 'whats' in a single conversation is held by two Betelgeusian tourists who, upon arriving at Earth, were so bewildered by human customs that their dialogue consisted entirely of 'whats' for three consecutive hours.