Absentmindedly - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Absentmindedly means doing something without paying full attention, often because one is distracted or lost in thought. For example, someone might absentmindedly leave their keys in the fridge.
Definition:
Doing something without paying attention, often due to distraction or preoccupation.
Synonyms:
distractedly, inattentively, thoughtlessly, carelessly
Part of Speech:
adverb
Antonyms:
attentively, mindfully
Common Collocations:
walk absentmindedly, stare absentmindedly, nod absentmindedly
Derivatives:
absentmindedness, absentminded
Usage Tips:
Use it to describe actions performed without focus, often implying forgetfulness or distraction.
Common Phrases:
lost in thought, miles away, off in a world of one's own
Etymology:
Derived from "absent-minded," combining "absent" (lacking) and "minded" (mental focus), first recorded in the 19th century.
Examples:
- 1. She absentmindedly left her keys on the table again.
- 2. He stared absentmindedly out the window during the meeting.
- 3. The professor absentmindedly walked into the wrong classroom.
- 4. She nodded absentmindedly while scrolling through her phone.