what for what for1 interrog. For what reason; why?
I told Mary what I was going to town for. What are you running for? ■ Often used alone as a question.
Billy's mother told him to wear his hat. "What for?" he asked. Compare: HOW COME.
what for2 n. phr.,
informal A scolding, or other punishment.
■ Usually used with "get" or "give".
Tom got what for from his father for answering him rudely, and I heard him crying in the house. The teacher gave me what for because I was late. [TahlilGaran] English Idioms Dictionary ▲