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.
While Walmart isn’t an official sponsor of the World Cup, either, taking advantage of the social media chatter helps the company glom onto the tournament without paying FIFA for the privilege – especially when attention spans are divided. Ramishah Maruf, CNN Money, 8 July 2026 Lately, Klassen has brought those anthropomorphic gifts to board books, those indestructible literary objects that are larger than a cellphone and smaller than a tablet and far better than either for your child’s attention span, mood, and gums. Casey Cep, New Yorker, 7 July 2026 While gamers sometimes lack the attention span to stay with one controversy for long, this one is at a tier higher than others, and any PlayStation social posting is going to be met with this kind of response indefinitely. Paul Tassi, Forbes.com, 7 July 2026 Universal Kids Resort succeeds because it was built around the interests, pace, and attention spans of younger guests. Jacqueline Dole, Travel + Leisure, 5 July 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 13 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

attention span

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