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.
Pressure, in turn, is hostage to the mediators’ attention span—which is almost always short. — Matt Waldman, Foreign Affairs, 13 Aug. 2026 In our era of short attention spans, that raises an obvious problem. — Phil Wahba, Fortune, 13 Aug. 2026 Then, at the end of 2024, a friend started talking to them about vertical storytelling just as a burgeoning new form of entertainment for shorter attention spans, known as the microseries, began taking off in Asia. — Los Angeles Times, 11 Aug. 2026 There is zero pressure on this team from a fan base whose attention span, and passion, will soon be distracted by the arrival of another football season. — Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 4 Aug. 2026 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

Rhymes for attention span

See All Rhymes for attention span

Browse Nearby Words

attention line
attention span
attentive
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Cite this Entry

“Attention span.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/attention%20span. Accessed 24 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

attention span

noun
: the length of time during which one is able to concentrate or remain interested
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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