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attention span
noun
: the length of time during which one (such as an individual or a group) is able to concentrate or remain interested
Examples of attention span in a Sentence
people with short attention spans
Recent Examples on the Web
Those neurocognitive functions include things like learning, regulating emotions, sensory processing, social behaviors, attention span and controlling impulses.
—Amy Schwabe, Journal Sentinel, 8 May 2024
Here’s what experts recommend to improve your attention span.
—Clare Mulroy, USA TODAY, 2 May 2024
Certain shrooms can foster neurogenesis, the expansion, and maturation of nervous tissue, while chocolate flavonoids synergize to heighten memory retention and improve attention span, ultimately elevating overall cognitive function [4].
—Sponsored Content, The Mercury News, 12 Apr. 2024
Get to The Point With the meteoric rise of TikTok came the downfall of the attention span.
—Howard Murphy, Rolling Stone, 9 Apr. 2024
Bottom line: Readers have short attention spans and a low tolerance for boredom.
—Renae Gregoire, Forbes, 29 Mar. 2024
Share [Findings] Neuropsychologists developed a shorter IQ test for children with shorter attention spans.
—Rafil Kroll-Zaidi, Harper's Magazine, 27 Mar. 2024
As attention spans get shorter, Grossbard said, many voters are increasingly turning to sharable Instagram infographics rather than taking the time to watch cable news or read a lengthy article.
—Angela Yang, NBC News, 26 Mar. 2024
To help save energy, it is equipped with a sleep mode that turns the car off after five minutes of inactivity—a very helpful feature for little ones with short attention spans.
—Alesandra Dubin, Parents, 18 Mar. 2024
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'attention span.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
First Known Use
1903, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near attention span
Cite this Entry
“Attention span.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/attention%20span. Accessed 21 May. 2024.
Kids Definition
attention span
noun
: the length of time during which one is able to concentrate or remain interested
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