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

For example, kids can become depressed, anxious, or show signs of behavior disorders or attention deficit disorders at this time. —Katherine Lee, Parents, 30 July 2024

Lyles has spoken openly about being diagnosed with attention deficit disorder and dyslexia as a kid and facing verbal abuse from his middle school classmates for his appearance. —Greg Rosenstein, NBC News, 22 July 2024

For instance, the study pointed to how people assigned male at birth are more likely to be diagnosed with substance use and attention deficit disorders. —Jen Christensen, CNN, 12 July 2024

Any attention deficit disorder has not prevented him from recognizing the value of Rodgers’ appearances. —Bob Raissman, New York Daily News, 6 Jan. 2024

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