Definitions

awhile

[uh-hwahyl, uh-wahyl] / əˈʰwaɪl, əˈwaɪl /

ADVERB

for a short period

Synonyms

WEAK

briefly for a bit for a little while for a moment for a spell for a while for the moment momentarily not for long temporarily transiently

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

awhile

Navarro still has his cell number in her contacts, but it’s been awhile since she’s called.

From Los Angeles Times ● May 10, 2026

Even if the war ends soon, it could take awhile to restore some energy supply.

From Barron's ● Mar. 23, 2026

Chrissy Lawler saw her social life dry up awhile back.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Feb. 22, 2026

California does take awhile to count its ballots and finalize its elections.

From Los Angeles Times ● Feb. 11, 2026

They lay there awhile, looking at Ma’s smooth, parted hair and her hands busy with sewing in the lamplight.

From "Little House in the Big Woods" by Laura Ingalls Wilder

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