distraction

About 2.69 uses per million words.

Meaning

1. noun Something that distracts.

   Poking one's eye is a good distraction from a hurting toe.

2. noun The process of being distracted.

   We have to reduce distraction in class if we want students to achieve good results.

3. noun Perturbation; disorder; disturbance; confusion.
4. noun Mental disarray; a deranged state of mind; insanity.

   The incessant nightmares drove him to distraction.

5. noun Traction so exerted as to separate surfaces normally opposed.

Similar words

beguilement disarray confusion diversionary mess harassment provocation forgetfulness diversion destruction

Often followed by

of from and to in by for is or

Word family

distractions distractive