ADHD

American  

[ey-dee-eych-dee] / ˈeɪˌdiˈeɪtʃˌdi /

abbreviation

1. attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: a condition, usually apparent in childhood but often persisting into adulthood, characterized by difficulties with executive function, lack of focus, hyperactivity, and/or impulsiveness: the three subtypes of ADHD are inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, and combined.

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ADHD British  

abbreviation

1. attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

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ADHD Scientific  

1. Abbreviation of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

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Etymology

Origin of ADHD

First recorded in 1985–90

Example Sentences

In 2024, Goodwin Procter started a program called “Thriving with ADHD,” which addressed issues around task initiation, sleep, mental health and working with colleagues with ADHD.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 5, 2026

Elaine Pinggal of Monash University and her team investigated whether this type of brain activity plays a role in attention challenges, particularly in adults with ADHD.

From Science Daily • Mar. 17, 2026

According to Pinggal, a possible next step is to test whether this same method could reduce daytime sleep like brain activity in people with ADHD.

From Science Daily • Mar. 17, 2026

Specifically, according to Alexander, “D-MER does tend to be more prevalent in those who have ADHD, are autistic, or people that have dealt with previous diagnosis of depression, anxiety, and PTSD.”

From Slate • Mar. 15, 2026

Percy didn’t believe it because she always made excellent grades, but like most demigods, she was ADHD.

From "The Mark of Athena" by Rick Riordan