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.

They say the tongues of dying men Enforce attention like deep harmony. Shak.

☞ 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.

2. An act of civility or courtesy; care for the comfort and pleasure of others; as, attentions paid to a stranger.

"To pay attention to, To pay ones attentions to, to be courteous or attentive to; to wait upon as a lover; to court."

Syn. -- Care; heed; study; consideration; application; advertence; respect; regard.

-- Webster's unabridged 1913