Dictionary entries for 'awhile'

a·while (ə-hwīĺ, ə-wīĺ)

adverb

For a short time.

usage note

Usage Note: Awhile, an adverb, is never preceded by a preposition such as for, but the two-word form a while may be preceded by a preposition. In writing, each of the following is acceptable: stay awhile; stay for a while; stay a while (but not stay for awhile ).

adverb

usage note

The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition