while

While means a period of time.

(noun)

An example of while is how long a person has to wait for to see the doctor.

While is defined as during or in a certain time.

(conjunction)

An example of while is cookies baking during the same time that caramel is being made on the stove top.

See while in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun

a period or space of time: a short while

Origin: ME < OE hwil, akin to Ger weile < IE base *kweye-, to rest > L quies, quiet

conjunction

during or throughout the time that: we waited while she dined
at the same time that: while you're up, close the door
1. although on the one hand: while he was not poor, he had no ready cash
2. whereas; and on the other hand: the walls are green, while the ceiling is white
North Eng., Archaic until

North Eng., Archaic until

transitive verb whiled, whiling

to spend (time) in a pleasant way; cause to pass idly: often with away: to while away the afternoon

Origin: < whilethe , but meaning prob. infl. by wile

See while in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun

A period of time: stay for a while; sang all the while. See Usage Note at awhile.
The time, effort, or trouble taken in doing something: The project wasn't worth my while.

conjunction

As long as; during the time that: It was lovely while it lasted.
At the same time that; although: While the grandparents love the children, they are strict with them.
Whereas; and: The soles are leather, while the uppers are canvas.

transitive verb whiled whiled, whil·ing, whiles

To spend (time) idly or pleasantly: while the hours away.

Origin:

Origin: Middle English

Origin: , from Old English hwīl; see k^weiə- in Indo-European roots

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