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

Even if the war ends soon, it could take awhile to restore some energy supply.

From Barron's ● Mar. 23, 2026

He took awhile to get up but remained in the game for just over a minute before leaving for good at the 6:40 mark.

From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 19, 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

“He had the nerve to ask me to sell awhile back.”

From "Hattie Big Sky" by Kirby Larson