# attn

CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/attn
Updated: 2026-10-15

## Definition

Stands for Attention. You write it at the top of a letter or email to show who should read it.

For teachers: Abbreviation for Attention. A heading in correspondence directing a message to a specified person or department, usually followed by a colon and a name.

## Examples

- I address the envelope attn the sales team.
- The package label reads attn the hiring manager to ensure it reaches the right desk.
- The invoice lists the head office address with attn the accounts department, clarifying responsibility for payment despite centralized mail handling.

## Usage notes

- Used as a heading before a name, usually written as 'attn:' followed by the person's name or department.

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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.