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Definition of meantime

meantime

/ˈmiːn.taɪm/
mean · time
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meantime Lexical Profile

meantime Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The time between one event, process, or period and another (used almost exclusively in the phrase 'in the meantime').

Example

"Your new passport will arrive in two weeks; in the meantime, you can use this temporary receipt as proof of application."

Synonyms
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• adverb

1

During the intervening period of time; at the same time but in another place.

Example

"The main conference will begin next Monday; meantime, the organizing committee is finalizing the guest list."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for meantime

Word Nuance & Usage

While 'meantime' and 'meanwhile' can both function as nouns or adverbs, in standard formal writing 'meantime' is overwhelmingly preferred as a noun in the prepositional phrase 'in the meantime,' whereas 'meanwhile' is preferred as a standalone adverb.

• Rhymes for meantime

• Nearby Words

meanness
means
meanspiritedness
meantime
meanwhile
measles
measly

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English as the phrase 'mene time,' combining 'mene' (from Old French 'meien,' meaning 'middle' or 'intervening') and 'time' (from Old English 'tima').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Meantime. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/meantime
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