scatterbrained — having a tendency to be forgetful, disorganized, or unable to concentrate properly
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: having a tendency to be forgetful, disorganized, or unable to concentrate properly
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈskætərbreɪnd/
Example Sentences
- My scatterbrained roommate put his phone in the refrigerator and spent an hour looking for it.
- I've been so scatterbrained lately that I showed up to work in my pajamas.
- The scatterbrained scientist discovered a groundbreaking formula while looking for his lost coffee mug.
scatterbrained
ADJECTIVE[/ˈskætərbreɪnd/]
having a tendency to be forgetful, disorganized, or unable to concentrate properly

Forgetful and disorganized person

Though she was trained, her mind remained scatterbrained!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
This compound word was formed in the 19th century, combining 'scatter' (to disperse or spread widely) and 'brain' (the seat of thought). The term metaphorically describes a mental state where thoughts are dispersed rather than focused, creating an image of a mind whose thoughts scatter in all directions.
Breakdown
scatter (to spread or disperse) + brain (organ of thought) + -ed (adjective suffix indicating a state or condition).
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My scatterbrained roommate put his phone in the refrigerator and spent an hour looking for it.”
“I've been so scatterbrained lately that I showed up to work in my pajamas.”
“The scatterbrained scientist discovered a groundbreaking formula while looking for his lost coffee mug.”
“Don't be so scatterbrained - write down important appointments in your calendar.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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