in the meantime

phrase

1
: during the time before something happens or before a specified period ends
The new computers won't arrive until next week, but we can keep using the old ones in the meantime.
2
: while something else is being done or was being done
She spent four years studying for her law degree. In the meantime, she continued to work at the bank.

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Cite this Entry

“In the meantime.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/in%20the%20meantime. Accessed 12 Mar. 2026.

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