attention span

noun

: the length of time during which one (such as an individual or a group) is able to concentrate or remain interested

Examples of attention span in a Sentence

people with short attention spans
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Meanwhile, the officer reviewing your case is buried under a mountain of paperwork, armed with the patience of a kindergarten teacher and the attention span of a detective running on espresso. Raghu Para, Forbes.com, 6 June 2025 First, the band was unknowingly ahead of its time by making all of their songs under three minutes, perfect for easy streaming and short attention spans. Tyler Hicks, Rolling Stone, 5 June 2025 Furthermore, these children tended to spend more time in front of screens themselves—a trend that could have long-term consequences for physical health, attention spans, and sleep. Daniella Gray, MSNBC Newsweek, 5 May 2025 Phish requires commitment—a subversive idea in our moment of minuscule attention spans. Amanda Petrusich, New Yorker, 14 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for attention span

Word History

First Known Use

1903, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of attention span was in 1903

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Attention span.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/attention%20span. Accessed 9 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

attention span

noun
: the length of time during which one is able to concentrate or remain interested
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!