Whence

Whence is an archaic English adverb meaning "from what place" or "from which source." It is used to inquire about origin or source and can appear in both questions and statements indicating provenance. In contemporary usage, whence is mainly found in formal writing, poetry, or historical texts, while speakers often substitute "from where" in ordinary conversation.

Etymology and related forms: Whence originates in Old English and is linked to a family of locative interrogatives that include where, whither, and hence. The form is considered archaic in modern English, though it remains common in literary or ceremonial contexts. Some editors treat "from whence" as redundant because "whence" already conveys the sense of "from."

Usage in literature: The word appears in many classical works, including Shakespeare and the King James Bible, where it helps to create a formal or austere tone. It is also found in philosophical and religious writings that aim for precision in describing origin. In modern prose it is sometimes used for rhetorical emphasis, but it can distract or confuse contemporary readers.

Related terms include whither, hence, and henceforth.