learning disability

American  

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

noun

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.

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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.

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Etymology

Origin of learning disability

First recorded in 1955–60

Example Sentences

Only William, the youngest son, whose childhood was hobbled by what “today would be labeled learning disabilities,” stayed close to home.

From The Wall Street Journal

"One of the reasons I'm so proud of what Ellie has achieved is that she is helping to change how others see people with learning disabilities," Yvonne says.

From BBC

For services to people with learning disabilities in Northern Ireland.

From BBC

Many adults want romantic relationships, but for people with learning disabilities it is much harder and sometimes even impossible.

From BBC

But he said walking away never entered his mind and within two months, the couple had welcomed another teenager with learning disabilities into their home.

From BBC