pass the time
idiom
: to let time or a period of time go by especially while doing something enjoyable
We played games to pass the time on the bus.
Examples of pass the time in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Surrounded by miles of woods, the location sets the stage for a tranquil escape, but those who are looking for a few activities to pass the time will be happy to discover its proximity to the Rockbridge Nature Preserve, as well as local wineries and breweries.
—
Lori Keong, Architectural Digest, 6 Nov. 2025
To help pass the time, his mother gave him pencils and paper and the young Davis learned how to draw.
—Katie Wiseman, IndyStar, 29 Oct. 2025
With sensory rooms for travelers, expansive public art gallery displays and one of the largest airport electric shuttle bus fleets, Indy is a lovely, central spot to pass the time.
—Anna Katherine Clemmons, USA Today, 28 Oct. 2025
Some played patty-cake to pass the time before doors opened, while others sported Paramore tote bags and Bleachers T-shirts.
—Maya Georgi, Rolling Stone, 24 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for pass the time
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Lori Keong, Architectural Digest, 6 Nov. 2025
To help pass the time, his mother gave him pencils and paper and the young Davis learned how to draw.
—Katie Wiseman, IndyStar, 29 Oct. 2025
With sensory rooms for travelers, expansive public art gallery displays and one of the largest airport electric shuttle bus fleets, Indy is a lovely, central spot to pass the time.
—Anna Katherine Clemmons, USA Today, 28 Oct. 2025
Some played patty-cake to pass the time before doors opened, while others sported Paramore tote bags and Bleachers T-shirts.
—Maya Georgi, Rolling Stone, 24 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for pass the time
Cite this Entry
“Pass the time.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pass%20the%20time. Accessed 8 Nov. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share