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Term commonly used for a hiding - why? (4,3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

what for

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'why?' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

I don't understand the rest of the clue.

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(Other definitions for what for that I've seen before include "Beating" , "reprimand?" , "it's a question of purpose" , "Punishment that may be given" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.
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