woolgathering

noun

ˈwu̇l-ˌga-t͟h(ə-)riŋ How to pronounce woolgathering (audio)
Definition of woolgatheringnext
as in daydreaming
the state of being lost in thought my woolgathering was abruptly interrupted by a question from the flight attendant

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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 woolgathering Today, woolgathering sounds harmless – one wanders contentedly among the hedgerows. — Melissa Mohr, The Christian Science Monitor, 11 July 2022 All this woolgathering about AGAD has inspired me to fire up the Idea Oven again for old time’s sake. — Eric Zorn, chicagotribune.com, 30 Apr. 2021
Recent Examples of Synonyms for woolgathering
  1. daydreaming
  2. trance
Noun
  • When your seatmate is leading a Q1 strategy session, staring out the window and daydreaming—one of the most distinct opportunities of flying—may seem like time wasted.
    — Nancy Walecki, The Atlantic, 13 Aug. 2026
  • Whereas, symptoms for women tend to be more internalized and subtle, such as with more quiet distractibility, daydreaming, disorganization, excessive talking and emotional dysregulation.
    — Bruce Y. Lee, Forbes.com, 4 July 2026
Definition of daydreaming
Noun
  • At its best, Happiness Anytime finds Bridges stretching out as a singer, leaning into the trance-like rhythms provided by Jungle’s Tom McFarland, Josh Lloyd-Watson and Lydia Kitto.
    — Jonathan Bernstein, Rolling Stone, 25 Sep. 2026
  • There are better descriptors for trance cinema, for things that are slow or obtuse.
    — Sam Bodrojan, IndieWire, 17 Sep. 2026
Definition of trance

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Cite this Entry

“Woolgathering.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/woolgathering. Accessed 3 Oct. 2026.

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