It literally means "to stretch towards" or "to pay attention to." This root is the source of many English words related to attention, such as:
* Attend
* Attention
* Attentive
* Intend
* Tendency
It's interesting to note how the meaning of "attendere" evolved into the concept of "paying attention." The image of stretching towards something implies a focus and a desire to engage with what's in front of you.