inattentive

adjective

in·​at·​ten·​tive ˌi-nə-ˈten-tiv How to pronounce inattentive (audio)
: not attentive : not paying attention
inattentively adverb
inattentiveness noun

Examples of inattentive in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web If something didn’t meet his expectations, however — an inattentive waiter or a disappointing bottle — a sharp edge could appear from underneath his soft-spoken demeanor. Dave McIntyre, Washington Post, 20 June 2024 For the inattentive reporter, however, the rote proceduralism of the campaign trail can have a narcotic effect. Kyle Paoletta, Harper's Magazine, 30 Mar. 2024 After two inattentive supervisors leave a group of miners trapped underground following a methane explosion during a Valentine’s Day dance, one miner must cannibalize his deceased comrades to survive until he is freed from the shaft — a week later. Brooke Knisley, Vulture, 13 Feb. 2024 Padilla, whose district includes Van Nuys and Panorama City, also took exception to remarks about inattentive council members. David Zahniser, Los Angeles Times, 8 June 2024 See all Example Sentences for inattentive 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'inattentive.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1692, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of inattentive was in 1692

Dictionary Entries Near inattentive

Cite this Entry

“Inattentive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inattentive. Accessed 4 Jul. 2024.

Kids Definition

inattentive

adjective
in·​at·​ten·​tive -ˈtent-iv How to pronounce inattentive (audio)
: not attentive : not paying attention
the student was inattentive in class
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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