attentive

adjective

at·​ten·​tive ə-ˈten-tiv 

1

: mindful, observant

attentive to what he is doing

2

: heedful of the comfort of others : solicitous

an attentive waitress

3

: offering attentions in or as if in the role of a suitor

an attentive boyfriend

attentively adverb

attentiveness noun

Synonyms

• absorbed
• deep
• engrossed
• enthralled
• focused
• focussed
• immersed
• intent
• observant
• rapt

Examples of attentive in a Sentence

The hospital is proud of its attentive staff.

Our waiter was very attentive.

Recent Examples on the Web

As usual, being attentive to the style and substance of what witnesses say yields further intriguing answers, leading us to the local avocado cartel. —Sophie Brookover, Vulture, 14 Nov. 2024

While each itinerary offers something different, group sizes are capped at 16 participants to ensure a more attentive, enriching, and individualized experience. —Taryn White, Travel + Leisure, 6 Nov. 2024

Helping small businesses was part of her White House portfolio, and even conservative critics acknowledge she’s been attentive to the issue. —Charlotte Alter / Pittsburgh, TIME, 10 Oct. 2024

Still, Hazen said, anyone who was hospitalized for Covid – whether vaccinated or not – should be attentive to their heart risks. —Brenda Goodman, CNN, 9 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

see attend

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

attentive

adjective

at·​ten·​tive ə-ˈtent-iv 

1

: paying attention

2

: thoughtful for the welfare or comfort of others : courteous

attentively adverb

attentiveness noun