zone in and out

zone in and out

To lose and regain focus, attention, or awareness intermittently, as due to boredom, fatigue, or intoxication. A: "Did you catch what the boss said about the policy changes?" B: "Not really. I kind of zoned in and out while he was talking." The pain medication the doctors gave me is really strong, so I keep zoning in and out.
See also: and, out, zone
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
See also:
  • zoned
  • zoned (out)
  • zonked (out)
  • be out of (one's) mind with (something)
  • be/go out of your mind
  • boredom
  • listen (to someone or something) with half an ear
  • listen with half an ear
  • goggle
  • beer goggles