attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

American  

[uh-ten-shuhn def-uh-sit hahy-per-ak-tiv-i-tee dis-awr-der] / əˈtɛn ʃən ˈdɛf ə sɪt ˌhaɪ pər ækˈtɪv ɪ ti dɪsˌɔr dər /

noun

1. ADHD.

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attention deficit hyperactivity disorder British  

noun

1.  ADHD.  a form of attention deficit disorder in which hyperactivity is a prominent symptom

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attention deficit hyperactivity disorder Scientific  

1. A syndrome of disordered behavior, usually diagnosed in childhood, characterized by a persistent pattern of impulsiveness, inattentiveness, and sometimes hyperactivity that interferes with academic, occupational, or social performance.

2. Also called attention deficit disorder

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Etymology

Origin of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

First recorded in 1985–90

Example Sentences

Rivera, who lives in South Gate, has a 6-year-old daughter who is autistic and has attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and a 16-year-old son who is autistic and nonverbal.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 13, 2026

Strong clinical evidence supports melatonin's short term benefits for children with neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

From Science Daily • Mar. 15, 2026

Their claim that acetaminophen—the main active ingredient in Tylenol—can cause autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder if taken during pregnancy was rejected in federal multi-district litigation in 2023.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 29, 2025

The boy, who may have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and autism which has yet to be diagnosed, had no previous convictions.

From BBC • Aug. 4, 2025

Prescriptions for drugs used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder surged during the coronavirus pandemic, particularly among women and patients ages 20 to 39, according to new research compiled by scholars affiliated with the U.S.

From New York Times • Jan. 10, 2024