while

Definitions

1. conjunction

   During the same time that something else happens.

   Examples

   • He was sleeping while I was singing.
   • Do not text while you are driving.
   ≈whilst
2. noun

   A period of time.

   Examples

   • He talked for quite a long while.
   • It is a long while since anyone lived here.
   ≈spell≈space≈spell≈throw≈while
3. noun

   A fairly long period of time.

   Examples

   • It has been a good while since we last spoke.
   • They lived there for quite a while.
   ≈spell≈space≈spell≈throw≈while +27 more
4. noun

   A short period of time.

   Examples

   • Wait here a while. I will be right back.
   • Give me a while to finish this.
   ≈spell≈space≈spell≈throw≈while +31 more
5. conjunction

   Used to show a contrast, like although.

   Examples

   • This case, while interesting, is frustrating.
   • While I would love to help, I am very busy.
   ≈as much as
6. conjunction

   For as long as.

   Examples

   • While you are at school, you may live at home.
   • While it is quiet, I can sleep.
   ≈provided that≈providing≈so long as
7. conjunction

   In some old or regional use, until.

   Examples

   • I will wait while you finish painting.
   • Stay here while I come back.
   ≈till
8. preposition

   In some old or regional use, up to a time.

   Examples

   • He worked while sundown, then went home.
   • They waited while midnight.
9. verb

   To spend time in a slow, easy way. Used with away.

   Examples

   • I whiled away the hours waiting for him.
   • She whiled away the afternoon reading.
   ≈idle≈laze≈lounge
10. verb

    In old-fashioned use, to keep someone busy so time passes.

    Examples

    • He whiled the child with stories of the past.
    • She whiled him with songs on the long trip.