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.
Tips for riders Be prepared for inattentive drivers by staying focused on riding and keeping your speed in check. Mars King, Twin Cities, 19 Sep. 2025 The remark was striking in its directness and suggested the pilot may have been inattentive at a critical moment. Heather Hunter, The Washington Examiner, 18 Sep. 2025 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 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 22 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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