attention span

noun

: the length of time during which one (such as an individual or a group) is able to concentrate or remain interested

Examples of attention span in a Sentence

people with short attention spans
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In an exposé by the Atlantic, professors warned that students at some of the nation’s most prestigious film programs now lack the attention span to sit through entire movies. Tiana Lowe Doescher, The Washington Examiner, 13 Mar. 2026 The World Health Organization now classifies burnout as an occupational phenomenon, and research shows that the average person’s attention span has dropped nearly 50% in the last two decades. Elan Gepner-Dales, Rolling Stone, 13 Mar. 2026 Waning attention spans can also play a role according to Melissa Loble, Chief Academic Officer for Instructure, an education technology company. Melissa Willets, Parents, 10 Mar. 2026 The Marty Supreme star took part in a live conversation with Matthew McConaughey for Variety in February, during which the pair discussed competing with audiences’ ever-shrinking attention spans. Fleurine Tideman, Glamour, 9 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for attention span

Word History

First Known Use

1903, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of attention span was in 1903

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Attention span.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/attention%20span. Accessed 17 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

attention span

noun
: the length of time during which one is able to concentrate or remain interested
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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