Search Dictionary
Definition of awhile

awhile

/əˈwaɪl/
a · while
JUMP TO:

awhile Lexical Profile

awhile Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

For a short time; for a brief or temporary period.

Example

"Let us sit on the porch and rest awhile before continuing the hike."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for awhile
Antonyms
View all antonyms for awhile

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse the single-word adverb 'awhile' (meaning 'for a while') with the two-word noun phrase 'a while'. In formal writing, 'awhile' modifies a verb directly (e.g., 'wait awhile'), whereas the two-word form is used after prepositions (e.g., 'for a while' or 'after a while').

• Rhymes for awhile

• Nearby Words

awful
awfully
awfulness
awhile
awkward
awkwardly
awkwardness

Word Origin & Etymology

From Old English ane hwile, a contraction of the accusative phrase meaning 'one while' or 'for a time'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Awhile. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/awhile
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.