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.

Awhile back, I had a small misunderstanding with one friend.

From Washington Post • Oct. 1, 2021

Awhile back, she came up and grabbed me by my shoulders, then firmed up her grip.

From Golf Digest • Nov. 13, 2018

They were, indeed, looked after for the rest of their days, and are now buried in the Pine Ridge Pet Cemetery in Dedham, Mass. Their headstone says "Sleeping Awhile."

From Chicago Tribune • Sep. 30, 2014

Awhile back, Arizona held Washington State to 25 points.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 5, 2014

Awhile ago we’d stopped hiding our money in the bathroom.

From "Kira-Kira" by Cynthia Kadohata