attention span

noun

Definition of attention span

: 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

The book includes testimonials from former White House chief strategist Steve Bannon and others that paint a picture of the president as a semi-literate ball of rage with a non-existent attention span who is cognitively declining before our eyes. — Benjamin Hart, Daily Intelligencer, "Concerns About Ronald Reagan’s Mental Health Were Handled Very Differently Than Trump’s," 14 Jan. 2018 Helene Stapinski writes about how Instagram helped her understand her 15-year-old daughter: Social media has been blamed for ruining our democracy, shortening our children’s attention spans and undermining the fabric of society. — Casey Newton, The Verge, "Facebook’s role in the French protests has polarized observers," 11 Dec. 2018 There’s a tour for practically every curiosity and attention span. — Rick Steves' Europe, The Seattle Times, "Specialized tours enrich travel," 14 Nov. 2018 The entire site only takes about an hour to peruse entirely—which is good for those with short attention spans or those traveling with kids. — Laura Ratliff, Condé Nast Traveler, "5 Best Day Trips from Dubai," 4 Mar. 2018 Unfortunately most people have short attention spans, and are so quick to judge. — Christopher Rosa, Glamour, "Madonna Just Responded to the Backlash Over Her Aretha Franklin Speech at the VMAs," 21 Aug. 2018 Unfortunately most people have short attention spans, and are so quick to judge. — Erica Gonzales, Harper's BAZAAR, "Madonna Responds To Backlash Against Her Aretha Franklin Tribute at the VMAs," 21 Aug. 2018 In a period in which shorter races are being discussed because of shorter attention spans and limited television windows, there has been no serious talk about shortening NASCAR’s longest race. — Mike Hembree, USA TODAY, "NASCAR's Coca-Cola 600 evolves from race of attrition to all out speed," 24 May 2018 In children, lead causes brain damage by reducing attention span, shaving off IQ points, and creating problems with impulse control. — Molly Rauch, Good Housekeeping, "When Your Water Poisons Your Children," 16 Feb. 2016

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'attention span.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.