absently

[ab-suhnt-lee]

adverb

1. in an absent-minded manner; inattentively.

ˈabsently

/ ˈæbsəntlɪ /

adverb

1. in an absent-minded or preoccupied manner; inattentively

Word History and Origins

Origin of absently¹

First recorded in 1870–75; absent + -ly

Example Sentences

At the Sunset Boulevard exit, I absently looked at the car to my left.

From Los Angeles Times

“And stop the screaming,” Jack added absently, and the howling stopped immediately.

From Literature

“I think we're fine,” Mama says absently, and takes a sip of her chai.

From Literature

“Oh,” he muttered absently as he paused before a tower of brass movie cans, “what do we have here?”

From Seattle Times

His hands are folded on the tabletop, his fingers absently twisting his wedding band.

From Literature