Etymology
Origin of attentively
First recorded in 1375–1425; Middle English; attentive ( def. ) + -ly ( def. )
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Yet when it’s Janick’s turn for an audience with the group, each member regards him no less attentively — which makes sense given that he’s a big part of why they’re here.
From Los Angeles Times
He keeps talking, and I listen attentively at first, but after a while it’s hard to concentrate with the sun scorching the top of my head.
From Literature
She listened attentively to every word Penelope uttered.
From Literature
“I see,” President Davis replied, attentively leaning forward across the desk.
From Literature
Seema pretends to listen attentively until neither she nor we can take it anymore.
From Salon
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
