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 of attentive

• focused
• immersed
• absorbed
• interested

Examples of attentive in a Sentence

The hospital is proud of its attentive staff.

Our waiter was very attentive.

Recent Examples on the Web

Teenagers should also understand that some AI products are designed to keep users engaged, and that an endlessly attentive chatbot may have incentives that are very different from those of a person who actually cares about them. — Dr. Edith Bracho-Sanchez, CNN Money, 21 Sep. 2026

My fans are attentive and open-minded and along for a crazy ride. — Kathryn Vanarendonk, Vulture, 21 Sep. 2026

The elegant atmosphere, attentive service, and exceptional wine selection were outstanding. — Tanasia Kenney, Charlotte Observer, 21 Sep. 2026

The Service Much like in Troutbeck, the service at Belden House is polished and attentive. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 Sep. 2026

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