inattentive Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. adjective showing a lack of attention or care
    • inattentive students
    • an inattentive babysitter
  2. adjective satellite not showing due care or attention
    neglectful.
    • inattentive students
    • an inattentive babysitter
    • neglectful parents

WordNet

In`at*ten"tive adjective
Etymology
Cf. F. inattentif.
Definitions
  1. Not attentive; not fixing the mind on an object; heedless; careless; negligent; regardless; as, an inattentive spectator or hearer; an inattentive habit. I. Watts. Syn. -- Careless; heedless; regardless; thoughtless; negligent; remiss; inadvertent. -- In`at*ten"tive*ly, adv. -- In`at*ten"tive*ness, n.

Webster 1913