attentive

[uh-ten-tiv]

adjective

1. characterized by or giving attention; observant.

   an attentive audience.

   Synonyms: watchful, awake, alert, aware, mindful, heedful
   Antonyms: unconcerned, apathetic, indifferent

2. thoughtful of others; considerate; polite; courteous.

   an attentive host.

attentive

/ əˈtɛntɪv /

adjective

1. paying attention; listening carefully; observant

2. careful to fulfil the needs or wants (of); considerate (about)

   she was always attentive to his needs

Other Word Forms

• attentively adverb
• attentiveness noun
• overattentive adjective
• overattentively adverb
• unattentive adjective
• unattentively adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of attentive¹

First recorded in 1375–1425; late Middle English, from Middle French; attent ( def. ), -ive ( def. )

Example Sentences

He predicted that “a robot that seems as intelligent, as attentive, and as faithful, as a dog” wouldn’t appear before 2048.

From Los Angeles Times

The service certainly matches the price point, our waiter was incredibly attentive, to the point that I thought he was the general manager for the first half of our meal.

From Salon

“One important theme throughout history . . . is that federal courts have to be attentive to the limits of their power,” she said.

From Salon

For Oliphant, every part of the cartoon — subject, style and structure — is important, and it’s that reverence for attentive construction that’s been so rapidly phased out.

From Salon

Stepping inside feels like a step back in time, with an old-school vibe and warm, attentive hospitality.

From Salon

Related Words

• accommodating 
• courteous 
• devoted 
• gracious 
• polite 
• respectful 
• solicitous 
• thoughtful