at·ten·tion (ə-tĕn'shən)
n.

1. Concentration of the mental powers upon an object; a close or careful observing or listening.
2. The ability or power to concentrate mentally.
3. Observant consideration; notice: Your suggestion has come to our attention.
4. Consideration or courtesy: attention to others' feelings.
5. attentions Acts of courtesy, consideration, or gallantry, especially by a suitor.
6. A military posture, with the body erect, eyes to the front, arms at the sides, and heels together.

interj.
Used as a command to assume an erect military posture.

[Middle English attencioun, from Latin attentiō, attentiōn-, from attentus, past participle of attendere, to heed. See attend.]

attentional at·ten'tion·al adj.

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The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition Copyright © 2007, 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2009. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.

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