absent-minded
|ab/sent/mind/ed|
B2
/ˌæb.səntˈmaɪn.dɪd/
distracted
Etymology
Etymology Information
'absent-minded' originates from the combination of 'absent' and 'mind,' where 'absent' meant 'not present' and 'mind' referred to 'the faculty of thought.'
Historical Evolution
'absent-minded' evolved from the Middle English word 'absent' and the Old English word 'mynd,' eventually forming the modern English word 'absent-minded.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'not present in mind,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'lacking attention due to preoccupation.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
lacking in attention to immediate surroundings or tasks due to preoccupation with other thoughts.
He was so absent-minded that he forgot his keys at home.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35