absentmindedly
|ab/sent/mind/ed/ly|
B2
/ˌæb.səntˈmaɪn.dɪd.li/
(absentminded)
forgetfulness
Etymology
Etymology Information
'absentmindedly' originates from the combination of 'absent' and 'mind,' where 'absent' meant 'not present' and 'mind' referred to 'the faculty of thought.'
Historical Evolution
'absentminded' changed from the Middle English word 'absent' and 'mind' and eventually became the modern English word 'absentmindedly.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'lacking presence of mind,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'in a manner that shows a lack of attention or concentration.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adverb 1
in a manner that shows a lack of attention or concentration.
She absentmindedly left her keys on the counter.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/04/07 07:36