# absentminded

/ˌæbsəntmˈaɪndɪd/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/absentminded
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

forgetful or not paying attention to what is happening around you. You use this to describe someone who is not thinking clearly or is easily distracted.

For teachers: characterised by a lack of attention to one's surroundings or a tendency to forget things. Often used to describe a state of mental distraction or a lack of focus.

## Examples

- He is so absentminded that he often forgets his keys.
- The professor was so absentminded during the lecture that he forgot to mention the final exam.
- Her absentminded nature often led to small errors in her work, though her overall intelligence and creativity were undeniable.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.