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

What’s more, at T. Gold, Gen Z attendees and others will learn the latest regarding how high technology meets goldsmith tradition to respond to the needs of a rapidly evolving market that’s increasingly competitive and attentive to product and production process sustainability and customization. —Kyle Roderick, Forbes, 13 Jan. 2025

And when presented with a 2025 Aurora Historical Society calendar, Williams couldn’t help but notice how attentive her aunt became as Jaros patiently took her through each month’s historical photos. —Denise Crosby, Chicago Tribune, 9 Jan. 2025

Yarrow was the tenor in Peter, Paul and Mary, his tender and attentive vocals sandwiched between the soothing baritone of Noel Paul Stookey and the airy contralto of Mary Travers. —Mikael Wood, Los Angeles Times, 7 Jan. 2025

Guests will enjoy pampering beyond the spa with an attentive staff that prioritizes service to ensure a sophisticated and satisfying experience. —Shivani Vora, Architectural Digest, 30 Dec. 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