ETYM AS. hwîl.
(Homonym: wile).
A period of indeterminate length (usually short) marked by some action or condition; SYN. piece, spell.
1. During the time that; as long as; whilst; at the same time that.
2. Hence, under which circumstances; in which case; though.
To cause to pass especially without boredom or in a pleasant manner — usually used with away.