The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:
Attention \At*ten"tion\, n. [L. attentio: cf. F. attention.]
1. The act or state of attending or heeding; the application
of the mind to any object of sense, representation, or
thought; notice; exclusive or special consideration;
earnest consideration, thought, or regard; obedient or
affectionate heed; the supposed power or faculty of
attending.
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They say the tongues of dying men
Enforce attention like deep harmony. --Shak.
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Note: Attention is consciousness and something more. It is
consciousness voluntarily applied, under its law of
limitations, to some determinate object; it is
consciousness concentrated. --Sir W. Hamilton.
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2. An act of civility or courtesy; care for the comfort and
pleasure of others; as, attentions paid to a stranger.
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To pay attention to, To pay one's attentions to, to be
courteous or attentive to; to wait upon as a lover; to
court.
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Syn: Care; heed; study; consideration; application;
advertence; respect; regard.
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