Meaning & Definition of word "While"
While
/waɪl/
noun:
- 1. A period of time.
- Example: It took a while to finish the project.
- 2. For a time.
- Example: Stay for a while and chat with us.
conjunction:
- 1. During the time that; at the same time as.
- Example: I read a book while waiting for my appointment.
- 2. Although; whereas.
- Example: While he is very talented, he still has much to learn.
Etymology
●Middle English whil, from Old English hwīl, of Germanic origin.
Common Phrases and Expressions
for a while:
For a short or unspecified period of time.
a while back:
Some time ago.
all the while:
During the entire time.
Related Words
meanwhile:
At the same time, during the intervening time.
whilst:
A conjunction used in the same sense as while, primarily in British English.
while away:
To spend time in a relaxing or enjoyable way.
Slang Meanings of while
Meaning: In a little bit
● Example Sentence: I'll be there in a while.
Meaning: Hang out for a bit
● Example Sentence: Let's chill for a while.