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

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

Ukraine updates:Putin relying on US 'attention deficit disorder' to win war, CIA chief says The meeting was the first ministerial visit by an Araba state since the war in Ukraine began. —Michael Collins, USA TODAY, 28 Feb. 2023

A lot of children with Anne Marie’s condition suffer from attention deficit disorder, learning challenges and behavioral problems, Superina said, because there are chemicals circulating in their bloodstream that cause the brain to misfire. —Heidi Stevens, chicagotribune.com, 25 Sep. 2020

See More

Word History

First Known Use

1978, in the meaning defined above

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