adverb

  1. what, how.
  2. what (a) ...!, how ...!. Usually written with kana alone. Indicates surprise, admiration, etc..
  3. surprisingly, to my amazement, believe it or not, why, ...!. Usually written with kana alone.

interjection

Usually written with kana alone.
  1. oh my, wow.
  2. well, ..., so, .... Used when asking for confirmation or approval.

Variations

Pronunciation Kanji Kana Is Common
 
何と なんと

Contained Kanji Breakdown

what
なに なん カ (2nd, N5)
human radical (no. 9)
can, passable, approval
カ コク -べ.き (5th)
street, ward, town
チョウ テイ チン (3rd, N1)
mouth
くち コウ ク (1st, N4)