inattention

noun

in·​at·​ten·​tion ˌi-nə-ˈten(t)-shən How to pronounce inattention (audio)
: failure to pay attention

Examples of inattention in a Sentence

Many traffic accidents are the result of driver inattention. They lost several potential clients through their inattention to detail.
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.
Trouble getting to court Officer transgressions ranged from uniform violations to improper vehicle pursuits to inattention to duty. Sam Charles, Chicago Tribune, 18 Feb. 2025 Couple that with the delays of autonomy, and two automaker-needs emerge: 1) the need to differentiate in technology and 2) the need to mitigate driver inattention. Steve Tengler, Forbes, 31 Dec. 2024 Conze agreed that City Hall has neglected the east side, citing the lack of lighting and inattention to proper infrastructure, including road maintenance. Susannah Bryan, Sun Sentinel, 8 Mar. 2025 But aggressive fire suppression and inattention to urban overgrowth have left excessive, easy-to-ignite vegetation in many areas. Justin Angle, The Conversation, 16 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for inattention

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1670, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of inattention was circa 1670

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Inattention.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inattention. Accessed 26 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

inattention

noun
in·​at·​ten·​tion ˌin-ə-ˈten-chən How to pronounce inattention (audio)
: failure to pay attention
inattentively adverb
inattentiveness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on inattention

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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