distraction

[ dih-strak-shuhn ]

noun

1. the act of distracting.
2. the state of being distracted. distracted.
3. mental distress or derangement:

   That child will drive me to distraction.

   Synonyms: craziness, insanity, lunacy, madness

4. that which distracts, divides the attention, or prevents concentration:

   The distractions of the city interfere with my studies.

5. that which amuses, entertains, or diverts; amusement; entertainment:

   Fishing is his major distraction.

6. division or disorder caused by dissension; tumult.

distraction

/ dɪˈstrækʃən /

noun

1. the act or an instance of distracting or the state of being distracted
2. something that serves as a diversion or entertainment
3. an interruption; an obstacle to concentration
4. mental turmoil or madness

Word History and Origins

Origin of distraction¹

First recorded in 1425–75; late Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin distractiōn-, stem of distractiō “separation”; equivalent to distract + -ion

Example Sentences

It was the morning after election day, and the distraction I had hoped to find from the previous night’s upheaval found me first.

From Los Angeles Times

It was music as message, artists as distractions.

From Los Angeles Times

Hoover describes the incident as a “bit of a distraction,” but insists “we’re continuing to stay focused on what we’re doing.”

From Los Angeles Times

No distractions are too minor when it comes to the Suneung, which many see as a culmination of years of formal education - and a turning point that determines their university placements, careers, and social statuses.

From BBC

“The intent here is to limit the distraction,” Chait said.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• aberration
• complication
• confusion
• disturbance
• diversion
• interference
• interruption