Pronunciation: [dɪstɹˈaktɪd] (IPA) 
The word "distracted" /dɪˈstræktɪd/ is spelled with a “d” followed by “i-s-t-r-a-c-t-e-d”. This word means unable to concentrate or focus on something due to being mentally or physically diverted from it. The “i” in the second syllable is pronounced like “ih”. The “a” in the third syllable is pronounced like “æ”. The word has a stress on the second syllable, which is marked as “ ˈ ” in the phonetic transcription.
The term "distracted" is used to describe a state or condition in which one's attention or focus is diverted or disrupted by external stimuli or internal thoughts, resulting in decreased concentration and may lead to reduced productivity or impaired decision-making abilities. This mental or physical diversion can prevent an individual from fully engaging with tasks, situations, or people.
When an individual is distracted, they may exhibit restlessness, mental wandering, or involuntary shifts in attention, frequently resulting in difficulties completing tasks efficiently or staying present in the current moment. Distractions can vary in nature, such as external interruptions like noises, visual cues, or social interactions, as well as internal distractions like racing thoughts, personal concerns, or daydreaming.
Distraction is a common phenomenon experienced by individuals of all ages and can occur in various settings, including work, school, or daily routines. Factors influencing distraction levels may include fatigue, stress, unfamiliar environments, multitasking, or the presence of electronic devices. Being consistently distracted over prolonged periods can negatively impact overall cognitive performance, memory recall, and effectiveness in accomplishing goals.
Addressing distractions often involves cultivating awareness of triggers and implementing strategies to minimize their effects, such as creating quiet and organized spaces, managing time effectively, setting clear priorities, or practicing mindfulness techniques to enhance focus and attention.
Disordered in mind; furious; mad.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word distracted is derived from the Latin word distractus, which is the past participle of the verb distrahere. Distrahere is a combination of two Latin roots: dis, meaning apart or away, and trahere, meaning to draw or to pull. Therefore, distractus literally means drawn apart or pulled away. Over time, this Latin term evolved into the Middle English word distraught, which eventually transformed into the modern English word distracted.
