while

 
Pronunciation: /wʌɪl/

noun

  • 1a period of time: we chatted for a while she retired a little while ago
  • (a while) for some time: can I keep it a while?
  • 2 (the while) at the same time; meanwhile: he starts to draw, talking the while
  • literary during the time that: beseeching him, the while his hand she wrung

conjunction

  • 1during the time that; at the same time as: nothing much changed while he was away
  • 2whereas (indicating a contrast): one person wants out, while the other wants the relationship to continue
  • in spite of the fact that; although: while I wouldn’t recommend a night-time visit, by day the area is full of interest

relative adverb

  • during which: the period while the animal remains alive

verb

[with object] (while something away)
  • pass time in a leisurely manner: a diversion to while away the long afternoons

preposition

Northern English
  • until: father will be happy while dinner time

Phrases

worth while (or worth one's while)

worth the time or effort spent.

Origin:

Old English hwīl 'period of time', of Germanic origin; related to Dutch wijl, German Weile; the conjunction is an abbreviation of Old English thā hwīle the 'the while that'

On the distinction between worth while and worthwhile, see worthwhile (usage). See also awhile (usage).