inattention

noun

in·​at·​ten·​tion ˌi-nə-ˈten(t)-shən How to pronounce inattention (audio)
: failure to pay attention

Examples of inattention in a Sentence

Many traffic accidents are the result of driver inattention. They lost several potential clients through their inattention to detail.
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
But aggressive fire suppression and inattention to urban overgrowth have left excessive, easy-to-ignite vegetation in many areas. Justin Angle, The Conversation, 16 Jan. 2025 Some symptoms relate to inattention, and others relate to hyperactivity/impulsivity. Rena Goldman, Health, 16 Jan. 2025 Several consumer advocacy groups have also argued the dye affects children’s behavior, but an FDA review in 2011 could not find a link between the dye and hyperactivity or inattention. David Matthews, New York Daily News, 15 Jan. 2025 The same goes for his inattention in helping Fraser Olender navigate a sticky season with Barbie Pascual. Brian Moylan, Vulture, 31 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for inattention 

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1670, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of inattention was circa 1670

Dictionary Entries Near inattention

Cite this Entry

“Inattention.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inattention. Accessed 22 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

inattention

noun
in·​at·​ten·​tion ˌin-ə-ˈten-chən How to pronounce inattention (audio)
: failure to pay attention
inattentively adverb
inattentiveness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on inattention

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!