attention deficit disorder

[uh-ten-shuhn def-uh-sit dis-awr-der]

noun

1. ADD.

attention deficit disorder

noun

1. ADD. a disorder, particularly of children, characterized by excessive activity and inability to concentrate on one task for any length of time

Attention Deficit Disorder

1. A disorder characterized by a difficulty in retaining focus, especially on tasks, for long periods of time.

One of the most common reasons children are brought into therapy, ADD is often treated with the somewhat controversial drug Ritalin®, which is thought to work by stimulating the attention-focusing structures of the brain.

Word History and Origins

Origin of attention deficit disorder¹

First recorded in 1980–85

Example Sentences

“I’m not proud of having a poor education. I’m not proud of being dyslexic and having attention deficit disorder,” he says, pausing to request some sweetener to stir into this tea.

From Salon

Figures were also far higher for pupils with additional learning needs, including those with attention deficit disorder.

From BBC

The company wanted to exclude the opinions of experts in a multijurisdictional against it on whether in-utero exposure to acetaminophen, the pain reliever used in Tylenol, could lead to autism or attention deficit disorder.

From Seattle Times

That speculation increased after his lawyers raised the possibility in a letter on Sunday requesting that he receive increased access to Adderall for his attention deficit disorder.

From BBC

Hanna first denied having any issues, chalking up his forgetfulness and mild cognitive impairment to old age and his longtime attention deficit disorder.

From Los Angeles Times