The spelling of the word "whatsis" may seem peculiar at first glance, but it can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first syllable is spelled "what" as expected, but the second syllable is spelled "-sis" instead of "-sys". This is because the final sound in the word is a voiced "z" sound (as in "fizz"), which is represented in the IPA as /z/. Therefore, the correct spelling of this curious word is "whatsis".
Whatsis is a noun that refers to an object or thing whose name is temporarily forgotten or not known. It is an informal term used colloquially to describe something whose specific name or identity is uncertain or elusive.
The term "whatsis" is typically used when a person is trying to refer to an item, device, or gadget, but cannot recall its exact name or lacks the specific vocabulary to describe it accurately. It is also used when someone is unsure about the function, purpose, or classification of an object. The word is often followed by the phrases "you know" or "thingamajig" to indicate a sense of doubt or unfamiliarity.
The usage of "whatsis" is widespread in casual conversations, especially when referring to technical or specialized objects that may not have widely known or commonly used names. It can be used to express frustration, humor, or playfulness when attempting to describe or identify something that is momentarily forgotten or difficult to articulate.
In conclusion, a "whatsis" is an informal term used to represent an object or thing whose specific name or identity is uncertain or unknown. It serves as a placeholder when one cannot recall the exact name or vocabulary to describe an item accurately.