★ If someone says they'll get to it "afterwhile," don't hold your breath - but don't worry, they mean well. ★
Origin
A contraction of "after" and "awhile." While "after a while" has been in English since at least the 16th century, Appalachian speech often blends the words together in casual conversation. The form "afterwhile" stuck, passed down through generations.
Notes
"Afterwhile" is common in rural and Southern speech. It’s more vague than "in a minute" or "in a while" and is usually used when the exact time isn’t important. You might hear it when someone is putting off a chore or making loose plans.
Yes and no. It's common in spoken English in the South and Appalachia but is considered informal in writing. It’s essentially a folksy blend of "after awhile."
What's the difference between "afterwhile" and "in a while"?
They’re close in meaning, but "afterwhile" can feel a bit more drawn out or noncommittal.
Do people still say "afterwhile" today?
Absolutely. You’ll hear it in everyday conversation in much of the South, especially among older folks and in rural communities.
Where does "afterwhile" come from?
Likely from naturally slurring "after a while" together in casual speech. It appears in oral storytelling and regional literature, too.
Is "afterwhile" ever used to mean "afterwards"?
Sometimes - context will tell you. In some conversations, it can mean "later on" rather than "eventually."
How to Cite This Page
APA (7th edition)
The Hillbilly Dude. (2025, July 30). Afterwhile. HillbillySlang.com. https://www.hillbillyslang.com/definitions/afterwhile
MLA (9th edition)
"The Hillbilly Dude." "Afterwhile." HillbillySlang.com, 30 July 2025, https://www.hillbillyslang.com/definitions/afterwhile.
Chicago (17th edition)
The Hillbilly Dude. "Afterwhile." HillbillySlang.com. July 30, 2025. https://www.hillbillyslang.com/definitions/afterwhile.
Created by The Hillbilly Dude, this site is a growing field guide to culture, speech, memory, and meaning - rooted in Appalachia but reaching across the world. Every slang word, saying, accent and story is gathered from first-hand experience and trusted sources. The goal: preserve authentic voices and share them with writers, learners, and culture lovers everywhere - with a little humor thrown in here and there. Read more...
'Afterwhile' is still common. When I come down off the mountain to go to town, I'll overhear this one.