inattentive

adjective

in·​at·​ten·​tive ˌi-nə-ˈten-tiv How to pronounce inattentive (audio)
: not attentive : not paying attention
inattentively adverb
inattentiveness noun

Examples of inattentive in a Sentence

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.
The fears of my imagination, the possibility of losing a child due to one inattentive moment, all combined to leave me gasping for breath. Adam Verner september 3, Literary Hub, 3 Sep. 2025 In the interview, Mustafa describes Seeley as inattentive and overly aggressive, both with his words and even physically in otherwise friendly pillow fights. Caroline Framke, Vulture, 26 Aug. 2025 The vices of deficiency, such as being anxious, agitated, impatient, inattentive, and rash, are common everyday experiences. Mary Crossan, Forbes.com, 16 Aug. 2025 Fed up with their inattentive and sloppy play, which culminated in their first 0-6 homestand since 1896, Giants president Buster Posey pivoted into a selling posture. Andrew Baggarly, New York Times, 2 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for inattentive

Word History

First Known Use

1692, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of inattentive was in 1692

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Cite this Entry

“Inattentive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inattentive. Accessed 11 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

inattentive

adjective
in·​at·​ten·​tive -ˈtent-iv How to pronounce inattentive (audio)
: not attentive : not paying attention
the student was inattentive in class

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