absently
adv. B2 Upper Intermediate ab·sent·ly
adv. to do something without thinking or paying much attention. You use this when you are distracted and not fully focused on the task at hand.
adv. in a way that lacks attention or awareness; performed without conscious thought or intention.
He absently tapped his pen on the desk.
She absently picked at the hem of her dress while listening to the boring lecture.
The witness absently nodded as the lawyer spoke, failing to realize that his lack of engagement was being interpreted as a sign of guilt.
From absent + -ly.