1Something, something-or-other, so-and-so — used to refer vaguely to an unspecified thing or person, or to stand in for a name one can't recall (e.g. 'なんとかさん', Mr./Ms. So-and-so).
昨日、なんとかさんという方から電話がありました。
Yesterday, someone called — a Mr./Ms. So-and-so.
なんとか言ってその場をしのいだ。
I said something or other to get through the moment.
名前はなんとか覚えているんだけど、漢字が思い出せない。
I remember the name, sort of, but I can't recall the kanji.
2Somehow, one way or another — describing an effort to make something work out, or the feeling that things will manage in the end even without a clear plan. Often used as 'なんとかして〜' to express a strong request or determination.
締め切りになんとか間に合った。
I somehow made it in time for the deadline.
なんとかしてこの問題を解決したい。
I want to solve this problem one way or another.
お金が足りないけど、なんとかなるだろう。
We're short on money, but I'm sure we'll manage somehow.