absentminded
|ab-sent-mind-ed|
B2
/ˌæb.səntˈmaɪn.dɪd/
forgetfulness
Etymology
Etymology Information
'absentminded' originates from the combination of 'absent' and 'mind,' where 'absent' meant 'not present' and 'mind' referred to 'the faculty of thought.'
Historical Evolution
'absentminded' evolved from the Middle English word 'absent' and the Old English word 'mynd,' eventually forming the modern English word 'absentminded.'
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 absentminded that he forgot his own birthday.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/04/07 07:22