attention Hear it!

attention definition

at·ten·tion (ə ten′s̸hən)

noun

    1. the act of keeping one's mind closely on something or the ability to do this; mental concentration
    2. mental readiness for such concentration
  2. notice or observation her smile caught my attention
  3. care or consideration the matter will receive his immediate attention
    1. thoughtful consideration for others
    2. an act of consideration, courtesy, or devotion: usually used in pl. a suitor's attentions to a woman
  5. Mil.
    1. the erect, motionless posture of soldiers in readiness for another command
    2. a command to assume this posture

Etymology: L attentio < pp. of attendere: see attend

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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