woolgathering

Woolgathering is a term used to describe a state of absentmindedness or daydreaming. It refers to the act of letting one's mind wander, often in a disconnected or unfocused way, to the point where attention to the immediate surroundings or a task at hand is lost. The phrase is thought to originate from the practice of collecting stray wisps of wool that had snagged on bushes or fences. This was a menial and often tedious task that could easily lead to a wandering mind.

Someone who is woolgathering might appear distracted, unresponsive, or lost in thought. This state is not necessarily negative and can sometimes be a source of creativity or inspiration. However, it can also interfere with productivity and lead to errors or missed information if sustained for too long. The term is generally used informally and carries no specific psychological or medical diagnosis. It simply describes a common human experience of mental disengagement.