Definition of "whoever" in English

pronoun

1. (interrogative) Who ever: an emphatic form of who.

   • Whoever thought up that stupid idea?

2. (fused relative) Any person or persons that.

   • Whoever breaks the law will be punished.

3. (fused relative) The person that (no matter who).

   • Whoever robbed that old lady ought to be locked up.
   • I don't know what it is. Ask whoever put it there.

4. Regardless of the person or persons that.

   • Whoever stole the painting, the police will catch the thief in no time.

5. (informal) Any person or persons.

   • I don't care who gets it; give it to whoever.

6. Misspelling of who ever other than in interrogative use.

   • He is the tallest man whoever lived. (incorrect usage)