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Definition of adhd

adhd

/ˌeɪ.diː.eɪtʃˈdiː/
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adhd Lexical Profile

• noun

1

A chronic neurodevelopmental disorder, typically diagnosed in childhood and often persisting into adulthood, characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with daily functioning or development (an initialism for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder).

Example

"Early diagnosis and tailored classroom accommodations can greatly support students with ADHD."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for adhd

• Rhymes for adhd

• Nearby Words

adequately
adequateness
adfix
adhd
adhere
adherence
adherent

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in 1987 in the revised third edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-III-R) as an initialism for 'attention deficit hyperactivity disorder', replacing the earlier clinical term 'attention deficit disorder' (ADD).

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Adhd. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/adhd
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