awhile

adverb

ə-ˈ(h)wī(-ə)l 

: for a while

Sit and rest awhile.

Can awhile be used after a preposition?: Usage Guide

Although considered a solecism by many commentators, awhile, like several other adverbs of time and place, is often used as the object of a preposition.

… would be generous enough to let me explore their world for awhile.

—David Yeadon

Examples of awhile in a Sentence

I'm going to sit and rest awhile.

The rumor had been around awhile.

Recent Examples on the Web

Surpassing 1,000 pages, the tome should be long enough to keep Sanderson's legion of loyal fans sated at least for awhile. —Eric Lagatta, USA TODAY, 7 Dec. 2024

Change your filter if it's been awhile, and expect to do it again later in winter. —Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 7 Dec. 2024

Designed with the warmth of a human embrace in mind, the Bracci’s curved and cushioned back invites its sitter to lean in and stay for awhile. —Rachel Gallaher, Robb Report, 1 Dec. 2024

So after standing there for awhile and taking the long view, leave speculation aside and invest in what’s valuable. —James Berman, Forbes, 27 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

adverbial use of a while (written as one word sporadically since Middle English), going back to Middle English awhile, one while, going back to Old English āne hwīle — more at a entry 2, while entry 1

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

awhile

adverb

ə-ˈhwī(ə)l 

ə-ˈwī(ə)l

: for a while : for a short time

sit and rest awhile