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

Don’t be surprised if the party lasts awhile longer.

From Barron's ● Jun. 12, 2026

Chrissy Lawler saw her social life dry up awhile back.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Feb. 22, 2026

Our call of the day from Charlie McElligott, Nomura’s widely respected cross-asset strategist, says investors had been ready for AI headwinds this year, but instead are facing a second-order one that wasn’t expected for awhile.

From MarketWatch ● Feb. 4, 2026

These details don’t cost much, but they whisper the same message:you’re cared for; linger awhile.

From Salon ● Nov. 25, 2025

At two in the morning, Ben slipped downstairs to sit with his mother awhile.

From "The Great Santini" by Pat Conroy