while: Meaning and Definition of

while

Pronunciation: (hwīl, wīl), [key]
— n., conj., prep., v., whiled, whil•ing.
—n.
  1. a period or interval of time: to wait a long while; He arrived a short while ago.
  2. a particular time or occasion.
  3. at or during this time; all along: She realized all the while that the cake would fall.
  4. worth one's time, trouble, or expense: The art exhibition that opened yesterday isn't worth your while.
—conj.
  1. during or in the time that.
  2. throughout the time that; as long as.
  3. even though; although: While she appreciated the honor, she could not accept the position.
  4. at the same time that (showing an analogous or corresponding action): The floor was strewn with books, while magazines covered the tables.
—prep.
  1. until.
—v.t.
  1. to cause (time) to pass, esp. in some easy or pleasant manner (usually fol. by away).
Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Copyright © 1997, by Random House, Inc., on Infoplease.
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