While vs whilst

Posted by Word Camel on July 27, 2003

Is there any logic at all to the use of the word 'whilst'? It's often used in place of "while" in print in the UK. However, I don't recall hearing it much. Is it archaic? I know it's a contaction, but of what?

While vs whilst GPP 07/27/03
- While vs whilst GPP 07/27/03
  - While vs whilst GPP 07/27/03
    - While vs whilst GPP 07/27/03
      - 'among' vs 'amid' GPP 07/27/03
        
        All of these '-st' words--opinions, please GPP 07/28/03
        
        Opinion on 'whilst', and thanks Word Camel 07/28/03
        
        Opinion on 'whilst' R. Berg 07/28/03
        
        Opinion on 'whilst' GPP 07/29/03
        
        'thou' Peter 07/29/03
        
        "Thee"--any Friends online? GPP 07/29/03
        
        Opinion on 'whilst' Kit 07/28/03
        
        Kit, which ones? GPP 07/29/03
        
        Kit, which ones? Kit 07/29/03
        
        In what context? GPP 07/29/03
        
        In what context? Kit 07/31/03
        
        First among equals Henry 07/29/03