a period of time

we chatted for a while

she retired a little while ago

at the same time; meanwhile

he starts to draw, talking the while

during the time that; at the same time as

nothing much changed while he was away

whereas (indicating a contrast)

one person wants out, while the other wants the relationship to continue

during which

the period while the animal remains alive

pass time in a leisurely manner

a diversion to while away the long afternoons

until

father will be happy while dinner time