distraction

American  

[dih-strak-shuhn] / dɪˈstræk ʃən /

noun

1. the act of distracting.

2. the state of being distracted. distracted.

3. mental distress or derangement.

   That child will drive me to distraction.

   Synonyms:

   craziness, insanity, lunacy, madness

4. that which distracts, divides the attention, or prevents concentration.

   The distractions of the city interfere with my studies.

5. that which amuses, entertains, or diverts; amusement; entertainment.

   Fishing is his major distraction.

6. division or disorder caused by dissension; tumult.

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distraction British  

/ dɪˈstrækʃən /

noun

1. the act or an instance of distracting or the state of being distracted

2. something that serves as a diversion or entertainment

3. an interruption; an obstacle to concentration

4. mental turmoil or madness

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Etymology

Origin of distraction

First recorded in 1425–75; late Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin distractiōn-, stem of distractiō “separation”; equivalent to distract + -ion

Example Sentences

Open layouts were meant to spark collaboration, but in practice they often create constant noise, distractions and a sense of being “on display.”

From The Wall Street Journal

It's the only way the 18-year-old can get through the constant noise, chatter and distractions of daily life.

From BBC

The brain continuously processes sights, sounds, and internal thoughts, and focus depends on its ability to ignore distractions while responding to what matters.

From Science Daily

He said the case "became sort of totemic of the distraction of issues that it felt like a different part of government were fascinated by".

From BBC

He unloaded when he asked about competing in a playoff game amid all the Rose Bowl’s wonderful distractions.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• aberration
• complication
• confusion
• disturbance
• diversion
• interference
• interruption