absentmindedness

noun

as in preoccupation

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of absentmindedness After the shopping trip, Kyle is FaceTiming with Boz about Dorit’s spending, her absentmindedness, and her inability to be on time, as if any of this is new. — Brian Moylan, Vulture, 27 Feb. 2026 Some of her absentmindedness in that situation can be attributed to the sleep deprivation that accompanies life as new parent. — Jack Beresford, MSNBC Newsweek, 3 Oct. 2025 Poppy might have learned his lesson after the first one, but absentmindedness is strong in our gene pool. — Maggie Shipstead, Condé Nast Traveler, 9 July 2021
Recent Examples of Synonyms for absentmindedness
  1. preoccupation
  2. absorption
  3. abstraction
  4. meditation
Noun
  • That preoccupation with time has also led to a long-running collaboration with Hamilton, which has worked with Nolan on several films.
    — Anthony DeMarco, Forbes.com, 21 July 2026
  • In fact, this preoccupation is the secret theme of these sun-and-sand songs.
    — Kelefa Sanneh, New Yorker, 19 July 2026
Definition of preoccupation
Noun
  • Many models also include an infusion mode, which can help enhance the absorption of serums and moisturizers.
    — Iman Balagam, Vogue, 15 July 2026
  • Taking magnesium with certain antibiotics, such as doxycycline and ciprofloxacin, can reduce antibiotic absorption.
    — Kirstyn Hill, Health, 14 July 2026
Definition of absorption
Noun
  • Proof, Not Just Theory The book grounds its argument in reporting, not abstraction.
    — Afdhel Aziz, Forbes.com, 22 July 2026
  • His paintings and sculptures are known for their use of biomorphic forms, with his canvases employing an all-over approach to abstraction.
    — Maximilíano Durón, ARTnews.com, 21 July 2026
Definition of abstraction
Noun
  • At his teacher’s direction, Pannakara traveled to Myanmar between 2018 and 2020 to study and practice Vipassana meditation, an ancient technique taught by the Buddha himself as core for attaining enlightenment.
    — Deepa Bharath, Fortune, 17 July 2026
  • Buddhism assumes that meditation is learned from experienced teachers.
    — Ronald S. Green, The Conversation, 16 July 2026
Definition of meditation

Browse Nearby Words

absentminded
absentmindedness
absent oneself
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Cite this Entry

“Absentmindedness.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/absentmindedness. Accessed 24 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on absentmindedness

Nglish: Translation of absentmindedness for Spanish Speakers

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