attentive

adjective

at·​ten·​tive ə-ˈten-tiv 

1

: mindful, observant

attentive to what he is doing

2

: heedful of the comfort of others : solicitous

an attentive waitress

3

: offering attentions in or as if in the role of a suitor

an attentive boyfriend

attentively adverb

attentiveness noun

Synonyms

• absorbed
• deep
• engrossed
• enthralled
• focused
• focussed
• immersed
• intent
• observant
• rapt

Examples of attentive in a Sentence

The hospital is proud of its attentive staff.

Our waiter was very attentive.

Recent Examples on the Web

While the crane parents are attentive, both of its chicks face risks. —Anne Readel, Smithsonian Magazine, 18 June 2025

Flight attendants working premium economy cabins seem to be allocated in numbers that allow for attentive service, without the hovering sometimes found in business class. —Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 18 June 2025

Those sources say Alonso has been very attentive to him, showing him affection while also demanding a lot from the Brazilian. —Gregg Evans, New York Times, 17 June 2025

Customers will always expect attentive service and personalized experiences. —Manjot Pal, Forbes.com, 17 June 2025

Word History

Etymology

see attend

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for attentive

• agentive
• incentive
• inventive
• preventive
• retentive
• disincentive
• inattentive

Kids Definition

attentive

adjective

at·​ten·​tive ə-ˈtent-iv 

1

: paying attention

2

: thoughtful for the welfare or comfort of others : courteous

attentively adverb

attentiveness noun