whom
UK: huːm | US: huːm
pron. (objective case of "who") used to refer to the object of a verb or preposition in formal contexts.
The word "whom" originates from Old English "hwām," the dative form of "hwā" (who). The "-m" suffix historically marked the objective case in Germanic languages, akin to German "wem" (to whom). Over time, English simplified its case system, but "whom" persisted as the formal object form of "who." While its usage has declined in casual speech, it remains standard in written and formal contexts to denote the object of a verb or preposition (e.g., "To whom it may concern").
Whom did you invite to the party?
The author, whom we met last week, signed my book.
To whom should I address this letter?
She is the one whom everyone admires.
Whom are you referring to in your speech?