Distraction
/dɪˈstræk.ʃən/noun
The act of diverting attention from one thing to another.
Did you know?In ancient Rome, distractions were often linked with madness, as they could lead one away from rational thought and focus, seen as a dangerous loss of control.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
distractio
“a pulling apart or diversion of the mind.”
Old French
Old French
distraccion
“a diversion or distraction of the senses.”
Middle English
Middle English
distrakcion
“the act of drawing away attention.”
Modern English
English
distraction
“the state of being distracted, often implying a loss of focus.”