Distract

Definition

Distract refers to the act of diverting someone's attention away from something, often causing them to lose focus or concentration on the task at hand.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈstrækt/
• Respelling: dih-STRAKT

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈstrækt/
• Respelling: dih-STRAKT

The pronunciation of "distract" is the same in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "distract" comes from the Latin word "distractus," the past participle of "distrahere," which means "to draw away" or "to pull apart." The term entered Middle English from the Old French word "distracter," carrying the meaning of diverting or pulling attention away.

Derivatives

• Distraction (noun)
• Distracting (adjective)
• Distractor (noun)
• Distracted (adjective)
• Undistracted (adjective)

Synonyms

• Divert
• Sidetrack
• Disturb

Antonyms

• Focus
• Concentrate
• Engage

Usage

The word "distract" is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to describe situations where someone's attention is drawn away from their original task or focus. It can refer to both intentional and unintentional acts of diverting attention. For example: "The loud noises outside the classroom distracted the students from their work."

Related Terms

• Distraction: Something that prevents someone from concentrating on something else.
• Interruption: The act of breaking the continuity or concentration of an activity.
• Preoccupation: A state of being distracted or absorbed in thought.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To divert attention from something: Refers to the act of drawing someone's focus away from what they are currently doing or thinking about.
  • Example: "The buzzing sound distracted her during the exam."
• To disturb or interrupt: Refers to the act of causing someone to lose their concentration or attention due to external factors.
  • Example: "The unexpected phone call distracted him from his work."