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

• absorbed
• deep
• engrossed
• enthralled
• focused
• focussed
• immersed
• intent
• observant
• rapt

Examples of attentive in a Sentence

The hospital is proud of its attentive staff.

Our waiter was very attentive.

Recent Examples on the Web

On the Exposure band’s initial spring tour — shows in New York, Boston, Philadelphia, and other cities —curious and attentive FrippHeads experienced their cult fave album beginning to end, down to the telephone rings at its start. —David Browne, Rolling Stone, 2 May 2025

While large companies often feel distant or impersonal, small businesses can be present, attentive and engaged. —Chris Harris, Forbes.com, 28 Apr. 2025

The entire team, from the concierge to the restaurant staff, is notably kind, attentive, and welcoming. —Susmita Baral, Travel + Leisure, 24 Apr. 2025

From nursing rooms in public spaces to attentive flight attendants who provided a bassinet on the plane, every detail seemed thoughtfully designed for families. —Ashley Vega, People.com, 22 Apr. 2025

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