Definition

Not paying attention or being distracted, often due to worry or anxiety.

Example

He seemed distrait during the meeting, lost in his thoughts.

Conversation

You seem a bit distrait today, is everything okay?

Yeah, I just have a lot on my mind right now.

I understand, it can be tough to focus when you're feeling distrait.

Absolutely, I just need to take a break and clear my head.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Distrait → It originates from the Old French word 'distrait', meaning distracted or drawn away. The term is derived from the Latin 'distrahere', where 'dis-' (meaning apart) and 'trahere' (meaning to pull or draw) combine to convey the idea of being pulled away from focus or attention.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'pulled apart' ('dis-' means apart and 'trahere' means to pull) from your thoughts, which helps you remember that 'distrait' means being distracted or unfocused.

Visually Confused Words