neurodivergent

adjective

neu·​ro·​di·​ver·​gent ˌnu̇r-ō-də-ˈvər-jənt 

ˌnyu̇r-

: having or relating to a disorder or condition (such as autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, dyslexia, or obsessive-compulsive disorder) that impacts the way the brain processes information : exhibiting or characteristic of variations in typical neurological development

Traveling can be stressful even under the best of circumstances. For neurodivergent travelers, schedule changes, new sights and sounds, airport delays, and unfamiliar foods can pose additional challenges.

—Jamie Davis Smith

It's also crucial when working with neurodivergent professionals to view management as an avenue for coaching. Too often, companies fire neurodivergent youth for not performing in the same way as neurotypical employees. Businesses must provide frequent, comprehensive reviews to better communicate what they need from an employee and to allow the employee to better understand how they can improve within their role.

—Brandon Cardet-Hernandez and Kevin McGrath

compare neurotypical

neurodivergent noun

plural neurodivergents

Some neurodivergents have difficulty interpreting nonverbal cues during interactions, such as subtle cues in sarcasm or flirtation …

—Maria Febiana Christanti et al.

Examples of neurodivergent in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Its large-language model neurodiversity coach provides real-time support for neurodivergent managers and employees. —Alan Schwarz, Forbes.com, 17 June 2025

There are arguments pro and con, but some fraction of the neurodivergent community is happy to claim them as their own. —Robert Lloyd, Los Angeles Times, 13 June 2025

From cocktail-style bottle shops to sensory-friendly bars for neurodivergent guests, the non-alcoholic movement is leading a broader evolution. —Rebecca Styn, Rolling Stone, 13 June 2025

Lachi is a legally blind, neurodivergent singer and public figure who uses music, media, and storytelling to amplify disability culture and identity. —Lydia Patrick, MSNBC Newsweek, 16 May 2025

For example, some neurotypical individuals may overlook creative solutions or patterns that come naturally to neurodivergent thinkers. —Lindsay Curtis, Verywell Health, 24 Apr. 2025

Having first published on the link between neurodivergent conditions like Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder) and hypermobility in 2005, Professor Kirby welcomes the increasing attention these issues are getting in the post-Covid crisis of work absence. —Nancy Doyle, Forbes.com, 30 May 2025

Like many teens between 2019 and 2021 (particularly those, like Eliza, on that neurodivergent spectrum), they were forced into isolation while confronting our terrifying vulnerability to unpredictable forces like a virus. —Melody Chiu, People.com, 24 May 2025

Friedman believes there are many benefits to hiring neurodivergent talent. —Maya Richard-Craven, Forbes.com, 28 May 2025

Word History

Etymology

neuro- + divergent

First Known Use

2002, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for neurodivergent

• convergent
• detergent
• divergent
• emergent
• insurgent
• resurgent
• serjeant
• urgent

Medical Definition

neurodivergent

adjective

neu·​ro·​di·​ver·​gent -də-ˈvər-jənt, -dī- 

: having or relating to a disorder or condition (such as autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivitydisorder, dyslexia, or obsessive-compulsive disorder) that impacts the way the brain processes information : exhibiting or characteristic of variations in typical neurological development

Neurodivergent individuals often have particular communication needs and preferences, heightened sensory sensitivity, and challenges with executive functioning. … These aspects of neurodivergent experience fundamentally impact the way neurodivergent individuals communicate and interact with others and perform professional work.

—Maitraye Das et al., Proceedings of the ACM on Human-Computer Interactions

compare neurotypical

neurodivergent noun

Some neurodivergents have difficulty interpreting nonverbal cues during interactions, such as subtle cues in sarcasm or flirtation. … While text-based communication can provide inclusive space, it can be overwhelming for neurodivergents due to the lack of nonverbal cues …

—Maria Febiana Christanti et al., International Journal of Social Science Research & Review