Your go-to guide for mastering this essential word
The word attention is a noun that refers to:
It can also be used as a command (e.g., in military contexts): "Attention!" means "stand straight and focus."
/əˈten.ʃən/ (uh-TEN-shun)
Academic context: Students must pay attention during lectures to understand complex topics.
Social context: She didn’t mean to attract attention; she just wanted to help.
Command form: “Attention!” shouted the sergeant, and all soldiers stood at ease.
The word "attention" comes from the Latin word attentio, meaning "a stretching toward." This reflects how we mentally "reach out" to focus on something important.
In psychology, "selective attention" describes our ability to focus on one thing while ignoring distractions—like listening to a friend in a noisy café.