absently, adv.
(ˈæbsəntlɪ)
[f. absent a. + -ly2.]
In an absent manner; with absence of mind.
| 1873 Black Pr. of Thule xxii. 369 Absently thinking of all the strange possibilities now opening before him. 1881 W. Collins Black Robe i. viii. 240 Romayne looked up and answered absently, ‘I don't know yet.’ |