a period or interval of time

to wait a long while; He arrived a short while ago.

Archaic . a particular time or occasion.

during or in the time that.

throughout the time that; as long as.

even though; although

While she appreciated the honor, she could not accept the position.

at the same time that (showing an analogous or corresponding action)

The floor was strewn with books, while magazines covered the tables.

Archaic . until.

to cause (time) to pass, esp. in some easy or pleasant manner (usually fol. by away ). ?

all the while

at or during this time; all along

She realized all the while that the cake would fall.

worth one's while, worth one's time, trouble

or expense

The art exhibition that opened yesterday isn't worth your while.

conjunction

although , at the same time , during , during the time , in the time , throughout the time , whilstnotes:awhile is an adverb and so must occur as a modifier to a verb; while is a noun meaning \'period of time\' , albeit , howbeit , much as , though , when , whereasnotes:awhile is an adverb and so must occur as a modifier to a verb; while is a noun meaning \'period of time\'

noun

bit , instant , interim , meantime , moment , occasion , period , space , spell , stretch , timenotes:awhile is an adverb and so must occur as a modifier to a verb; while is a noun meaning \'period of time\' , time , endeavor , exertion , pain , strain , striving , struggle , trouble , although , during , though , until , whereas , yet

verb

dawdle , fiddle away , kill , trifle away , waste , wile