Dictionary
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. Archaic.a particular time or occasion.
3. all the while, at or during this time; all along:
She realized all the while that the cake would fall.
4. worth one's while, 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.
Archaic.until.
—
v.t.
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.