whereas Meaning, Definition & Usage

Where*as" adverb
Definitions
  1. At which place; where. Obs. Chaucer.
    At last they came whereas that lady bode. Spenser.
Where*as" conjunction
Definitions
  1. Considering that; it being the case that; since; -- used to introduce a preamble which is the basis of declarations, affirmations, commands, requests, or like, that follow.
  2. When in fact; while on the contrary; the case being in truth that; although; -- implying opposition to something that precedes; or implying recognition of facts, sometimes followed by a different statement, and sometimes by inferences or something consequent.
    Are not those found to be the greatest zealots who are most notoriously ignorant? whereas true zeal should always begin with true knowledge. Sprat.

Webster 1913