Meaning & Definition of word "Attention"

Attention

/əˈtɛnʃən/

noun:

  • 1. The notice taken of someone or something; the regard shown to someone or something.
    • Example: Her performance in the play garnered a lot of attention from critics.
  • 2. A person's mental energy or focus on a task or stimulus.
    • Example: The lecture was so engaging that it held the students' attention throughout.
  • 3. The state of consciousness in which a person is aware of and able to think about what they are experiencing.
    • Example: Meditation helps in training your attention to be more focused and less distracted.

Etymology

From Latin 'attentio', meaning 'to stretch toward'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

pay attention:

To listen or watch closely.

draw attention to:

To make someone aware of something.

in attention:

In a state of preparedness.

give attention to:

To care for or provide consideration to.

Related Words

attentive:

Showing careful consideration or concentration.

attentiveness:

The quality of paying close attention.

intention:

An aim or plan that someone intends to achieve.

Slang Meanings of attention

Meaning: Look at me!

Example Sentence: She’s always acting out for attention.

Meaning: Show off to get noticed.

Example Sentence: He was just trying to get attention by being loud.