Main Entry:

at·ten·tion

Pronunciation:

\ə-ˈten(t)-shən; sense 4 often (ə-)ˌten(ch)-ˈhət\

Function:

noun

Etymology:

Middle English attencioun, from Latin attention-, attentio, from attendere

Date:

14th century

1 a: the act or state of applying the mind to something b: a condition of readiness for such attention involving especially a selective narrowing or focusing of consciousness and receptivity2: observation, notice ; especially : consideration with a view to action <a problem requiring prompt attention>3 a: an act of civility or courtesy especially in courtship <she welcomed his attentions> b: sympathetic consideration of the needs and wants of others : attentiveness4: a position assumed by a soldier with heels together, body erect, arms at the sides, and eyes to the front —often used as a command

— at·ten·tion·al \-ˈten(t)-sh(ə-)nəl\ adjective