attention deficit disorder

noun

: a developmental disorder that is marked especially by persistent symptoms of inattention (such as distractibility, forgetfulness, or disorganization) or by symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity (such as fidgeting, speaking out of turn, or restlessness) or by symptoms of all three and that is not caused by any serious underlying physical or mental disorder

Note: Symptoms of attention deficit disorder range from mild to severe and always interfere with normal development and daily functioning. A diagnosis of attention deficit disorder typically requires that symptoms be present by the age of 12 and in more than one setting (such as both home and school). Attention deficit disorder may persist into adulthood, creating difficulties in one's occupation or social relationships. While hyperactivity and impulsivity are not always present as symptoms, attention deficit disorder is commonly referred to as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

abbreviation ADD

Examples of attention deficit disorder in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The 2023 report mentions students at the camp with diagnoses of attention deficit disorder, autism, post-traumatic stress disorder, panic attacks, learning differences and other conditions, and said some of the children told agency workers they had been restrained by staff. Elizabeth Chuck, NBC News, 9 Feb. 2024 That teacher later suggested to Paras’ parents that he be tested for attention deficit disorder. Andy Greenberg, WIRED, 14 Nov. 2023 Congress needs to face that, needs to stay focused, needs to not just chase the headlines and have a short attention deficit disorder problem. Grace Segers, The New Republic, 13 Oct. 2023 Hanna first denied having any issues, chalking up his forgetfulness and mild cognitive impairment to old age and his longtime attention deficit disorder. Nardine Saad, Los Angeles Times, 21 June 2023 Popular in recent years, weighted blankets can be beneficial for anyone, including those with attention deficit disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), sensory processing disorder, insomnia, chronic pain, inflammation, and injuries. Lindsay Modglin, Verywell Health, 20 June 2023 He has been diagnosed with attention deficit disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety and depression. Maggie Green, Arkansas Online, 12 June 2023 These special performances that began at the theater in 2018 altered elements of the show to take into consideration those with sensory disorders like autism, attention deficit disorder and sensory integrative dysfunction. Los Angeles Times, 14 Dec. 2022 The affidavits also said Anne Minard believed Chatfield abused Adderall, a drug used to treat attention deficit disorder that also acts as a stimulant. Detroit Free Press, 23 Oct. 2022

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'attention deficit disorder.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1978, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of attention deficit disorder was in 1978

Dictionary Entries Near attention deficit disorder

Cite this Entry

“Attention deficit disorder.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/attention%20deficit%20disorder. Accessed 20 Apr. 2024.

Kids Definition

attention deficit disorder

noun
: a condition that is characterized by an inability to maintain attention or by excessively active and impulsive behavior or by a combination of both and that interferes with one's ability to function in school, home, work, or with others

Medical Definition

attention deficit disorder

noun
: a developmental disorder that is marked especially by persistent symptoms of inattention (such as distractibility, forgetfulness, or disorganization) or by symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity (such as fidgeting, speaking out of turn, or restlessness) or by symptoms of all three and that is not caused by any serious underlying physical or mental disorder

Note: Symptoms of attention deficit disorder range from mild to severe and always interfere with normal development and daily functioning. A diagnosis of attention deficit disorder typically requires that symptoms be present by the age of 12 and in more than one setting (such as both home and school). Attention deficit disorder may persist into adulthood, creating difficulties in one's occupation or social relationships. While hyperactivity and impulsivity are not always present as symptoms, attention deficit disorder is commonly referred to as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Three percent to 10 percent of children are estimated to have attention deficit disorder, and the problem is more common in boys than in girls.The Springfield (Massachusetts) Union-News
abbreviation ADD

More from Merriam-Webster on attention deficit disorder

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