get (the) what for

get (the) what for

To be thoroughly and intensely punished, rebuked, scolded, or berated. I got the what for from my parents last night for taking the car without permission. I got what for from the boss when I lost the company that big account.See also: get, what

give somebody/get what ˈfor

(British English, spoken) punish somebody/be punished, usually severely: I’ll give her what for if she does that again.If you steal any more of my apples, you’ll get what for.See also: get, give, somebody, what