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.

---

ADHD British  

abbreviation

1. attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

---

ADHD Scientific  

1. Abbreviation of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

---

Etymology

Origin of ADHD

First recorded in 1985–90

Example Sentences

Multiple studies since then have also identified a correlation between a woman’s use of antidepressants during pregnancy and her child’s later diagnosis of autism, and to a lesser extent, ADHD.

From Los Angeles Times • May 27, 2026

The data showed that children born to women with a history of depression were more likely to be diagnosed with autism or ADHD, regardless of whether their mother took psychiatric medication.

From Los Angeles Times • May 27, 2026

For kids with ADHD, the allure of YouTube on school devices can be especially challenging, several parents said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 29, 2026

Denby said financial services should have stronger safeguards in place for those who have ADHD.

From BBC • Mar. 25, 2026

One poor bastard is ADHD, OCD, BPD, bipolar, and on top of it all has some sort of anxiety disorder.

From "All The Bright Places" by Jennifer Niven