Attention
/əˈtɛnʃən/
Definitions
2 meaningsClosely listening to, observing, or considering something.
/əˈtɛnʃən/
The act of focusing one's mind on something.
Give me your full attention.
💡 Simply: Paying close attention to something.
More Examples
The painting demands your attention.
How It's Used
"The teacher demanded the students' attention."
"Selective attention is crucial for cognitive function."
A posture or state of readiness.
/əˈtɛnʃən/
Notice or regard.
She stood at attention when the flag was raised.
💡 Simply: Being ready and alert.
How It's Used
"The soldiers stood at attention."
Idioms & expressions
pay attention
To focus one's mind on something.
"Pay attention to what I'm saying."
From Middle French *attention*, from Latin *attentus*, past participle of *attendere* "to stretch toward, to pay attention".
The word has consistently been used to describe focused mental concentration since its adoption into English.
Memory tip
Think of 'attend' – to give your mind to something.
Word Origin
"to stretch toward"