- Attention is defined as the act of concentrating and keeping one's mind focused on something.
A student seriously focusing on her teacher's lecture is an example of someone in a state of attention.
attention
noun
- the act of keeping one's mind closely on something or the ability to do this; mental concentration
- mental readiness for such concentration
- notice or observation: her smile caught my attention
- care or consideration: the matter will receive his immediate attention
- thoughtful consideration for others
- an act of consideration, courtesy, or devotion: usually used in pl.: a suitor's attentions to a woman
- Mil.
- the erect, motionless posture of soldiers in readiness for another command
- a command to assume this posture
Origin of attention
Classical Latin attentio ; from past participle of attendere: see attendattention
noun
- a. The act of close or careful observing or listening: You'll learn more if you pay attention in class.b. The ability or power to keep the mind on something; the ability to concentrate: We turned our attention to the poem's last stanza.c. Notice or observation: The billboard caught our attention.
- The act of dealing with something or someone; treatment: This injury requires immediate medical attention.
- attentionsa. Acts of interest or interference: “men who wanted &ellipsis; freedom from censorship and the attentions of the police” (John Kenneth Galbraith).b. Acts of consideration or courtesy, especially in an effort to win someone's affection or gain sexual favors: “She was almost giddy with disbelief at the unexpected attentions of a handsome, well-spoken, obviously professional man” (Rob Kantner).
- A military posture, with the body erect, eyes to the front, arms at the sides, and heels together.
interjection
Used as a command to assume an erect military posture.
Origin of attention
Middle English attencioun, from Latin attentiō, attentiōn-, from attentus, past participle of attendere, to heed; see attend.Related Forms:
- at·ten′tion·al
adjective
attention
Noun
(usually uncountable, plural attentions)
- (uncountable) Mental focus.
- Please direct your attention to the following words.
- (countable) An action or remark expressing concern for or interest in someone or something, especially romantic interest.
- (uncountable, military) A state of alertness in the standing position.
- The company will now come to attention.
- attentive
- (!)
Interjection
- (military) Used as a command to bring soldiers to the attention position.
Origin
From Middle English attencioun, from Latin attentio, from attendere, past participle attentus (“to attend, give heed to”); see attend.
