per·haps / pərˈ(h)aps/ • adv. used to express uncertainty or possibility: perhaps I should have been frank with him. ∎  used when one does not wish to be too definite or assertive in the expression of an opinion: perhaps not surprisingly, he was cautious about committing himself. ∎  used when making a polite request, offer, or suggestion: would you perhaps consent to act as our guide? ∎  used to express reluctant or qualified agreement or acceptance: “She understood him better than his wife ever did.” “Perhaps so, but …”

perhaps XVI. f. PER2 + pl. of HAP, repl. ME. phr. by hap(s).