while away

British  

verb

1. (tr, adverb) to pass (time) idly and usually pleasantly

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while away Idioms  

1. Spend time idly or pleasantly, as in It was a beautiful day and we whiled away the hours in the garden. This expression is the only surviving use of the verb while, meaning “to spend time.” [First half of 1600s]

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

while away

There are lots of software applications that mimic the movements of a computer mouse, so you can appear to be working while away from your desk.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 20, 2026

After the latter vote, Trump defended doing so while away from the state but reiterated his broader opposition.

From Barron's ● Aug. 18, 2026

The BBC has promised "unmissable drama" before her on-screen exit, which is said to be a "while away" yet.

From BBC ● Aug. 9, 2026

The dash console sits well forward of the well-padded front seats, creating an airy space in which to while away the miles.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 6, 2026

That would be an agreeable way to while away the time until our mother took us home.

From "Three Little Words: A Memoir" by Ashley Rhodes-Courter

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Related Words

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