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 of attentive

• focused
• immersed
• absorbed
• interested

Examples of attentive in a Sentence

The hospital is proud of its attentive staff.

Our waiter was very attentive.

Recent Examples on the Web

Service here is attentive and polished, but not pushy, and servers are happy to walk you through the cocktail menu and provide suggestions. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 30 Mar. 2026

When routines are disrupted the brain becomes more attentive and more open to new perspectives. —Rabbi Bruce D. Forman, Sun Sentinel, 25 Mar. 2026

One reason why feeling a connection with nature may be linked to well-being is that nature connectedness fosters mindfulness – the ability to be present and attentive. —Lea Barbett, The Conversation, 25 Mar. 2026

Service was friendly and attentive during my visit. —Alaina Chou, Bon Appetit Magazine, 24 Mar. 2026

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