inattention

noun

in·​at·​ten·​tion ˌi-nə-ˈten(t)-shən How to pronounce inattention (audio)
: failure to pay attention

Examples of inattention in a Sentence

Many traffic accidents are the result of driver inattention. They lost several potential clients through their inattention to detail.
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.
It’s characterized by patterns of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. Cara Lynn Shultz, PEOPLE, 4 Sep. 2025 Sometimes latency isn’t about inattention but about internal overwhelm. Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 2025 In both races a clear mandate was delivered, despite each facing vocal opponents who challenged them on every failure and political miscalculation, from stances on antisemitism to their inattention to housing, public safety and child care. Sara Forman, New York Daily News, 8 July 2025 Stay vigilant Nearly a quarter of all reported boating accidents last year were caused by operator inattention or improper lookout. Katie Nixon, The Tennessean, 2 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for inattention

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1670, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of inattention was circa 1670

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Inattention.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inattention. Accessed 10 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

inattention

noun
in·​at·​ten·​tion ˌin-ə-ˈten-chən How to pronounce inattention (audio)
: failure to pay attention
inattentively adverb
inattentiveness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on inattention

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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