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Meanwhile

//ˈmiːnwaɪl// adv, noun

Definitions

Adverb

1
During the time that something is happening, often specifically in a different place. not-comparable
"There was a party going on downstairs. Meanwhile, I was reading a book."
2
During an intervening time; from now until a future time. not-comparable
"We’re going on holiday next month; meanwhile, keep working on the project."
3
In contrast to aspects previously mentioned. not-comparable
"Some songs on the album are beautiful. Meanwhile, others are quite forgettable."

Adverb

1
during the intervening time wordnet
2
at the same time but in another place wordnet

Noun

1
The time between two events.
"In the meanwhile, the surveyors carried the line three miles, which was no contemptible day's work, considering how cruelly they were entangled with briers and gallbushes."
2
the time between one event, process, or period and another wordnet

Etymology

Etymology 1

From Middle English menewhile, equivalent to mean (“intermediate”) + while. Adverb is by ellipsis from in the mean while, noun being conventionally written as one word after the adjective.

Etymology 2

From Middle English menewhile, equivalent to mean (“intermediate”) + while. Adverb is by ellipsis from in the mean while, noun being conventionally written as one word after the adjective.

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