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.

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

Chrissy Lawler saw her social life dry up awhile back.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 22, 2026

While it doesn’t necessarily mean the stock is in trouble, since this technical condition can last for awhile and be worked off without a selloff, it does suggest caution.

From MarketWatch • Jan. 21, 2026

“Bottom line, these numbers are quite impressive, particularly given the current economic and earnings cycles have been going awhile post-Covid-19,” writes Jeffrey Buchbinder, chief equity strategist at LPL Financial.

From Barron's • Nov. 25, 2025

Doctor Copeland went to the back of the house and sat with Portia awhile in the kitchen.

From "The Heart is a Lonely Hunter" by Carson McCullers