learning disability

American  

[lur-ning dis-uh-bil-i-tee] / ˈlɜr nɪŋ ˌdɪs ə bɪl ɪ ti /

noun

• learning disabilities
  plural

1. Also called specific learning disability.  a disorder, such as dyslexia, characterized by difficulty in one specific cognitive area, including understanding or using spoken or written language, understanding or using numbers and mathematical concepts, coordinating movements, or directing attention.

2. Chiefly British. intellectual disability.

---

learning disability Scientific  

/ lûr′nĭng /

1. Any of various disabilities of the basic cognitive and psychological processes involved in using language or performing mathematical calculations. Learning disabilities are not caused by low intelligence, emotional disturbance, or physical impairment (as of hearing). Dyslexia is a common learning disability.

---

Other Word Forms

Noun Inflected Forms

• learning disabilities
  plural

Etymology

Origin of learning disability

First recorded in 1955–60

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

learning disability

Type one could be autism with a learning disability.

From BBC ● Aug. 21, 2026

He doesn't talk, has a learning disability and needs constant care.

From BBC ● Aug. 21, 2026

Jon Sparkes OBE, chief executive of learning disability charity Mencap, said he was concerned that ending the LeDeR report in its current form could mean the issue became "deprioritised".

From BBC ● Jul. 13, 2026

It looked at deaths recorded between 2021 and 2024 and found those with a learning disability died, on average, 19 years younger than the general population.

From BBC ● Jul. 13, 2026

I’ll lie and insist that there’s been a computer error and that I am supposed to be in the Distinguished Scholars class, even though I suck in English and have a learning disability.

From "The Freedom Writers Diary" by The Freedom Writers