meantime
UK: ˈmiːntaɪm | US: ˈmiːntaɪm
n. the intervening time between two events
adv. during the intervening time; meanwhile
The word "meantime" originates from Middle English, combining "mean" (derived from Old English "gemǣne," meaning "common" or "middle") and "time." The term evolved to signify the "intermediate time" between two events. The morpheme "mean" here reflects its archaic sense of "middle," while "time" retains its core meaning of duration. Over centuries, "meantime" solidified as both a noun and adverb, emphasizing temporal intervals.
In the meantime, she decided to read a book while waiting for her flight.
The repairs will take a week; meantime, use the backup generator.
He finished his coffee and, in the meantime, checked his emails.
The project is delayed, but meantime, we can focus on other tasks.
She prepared dinner, and meantime, her children did their homework.