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 contrast, growing concerns have emerged around constant exposure to fast-paced, short-form content, which might limit the development of attention span, impulse control and self-regulation skills that children need to succeed in school and everyday life. Milena Malaver, Miami Herald, 27 May 2026 The iPhone and social media have created powerful addictive products that degrade their customers’ attention spans and in-person social attachments. Jonathan Chait, The Atlantic, 26 May 2026 Over time, long term stress changes our brain, affecting everything from mood, memory, our behavior, our attention spans and even our ability to make decisions. Judy Koutsky, Forbes.com, 26 May 2026 Instead, too many filmmakers took the crowd’s attention span for granted; even the strongest films in competition could delete a half-hour of dead air. Joshua Rothkopf, Los Angeles Times, 22 May 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 3 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

attention span

noun
: the length of time during which one is able to concentrate or remain interested
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