attention deficit disorder
noun
a condition, usually in children, marked by inattentiveness, dreaminess, and passivity. Abbreviation: ADD
(no longer in technical use) attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Origin of attention deficit disorder
First recorded in 1980–85
Words nearby attention deficit disorder
attendant,
attendee,
attending,
attent,
attention,
attention deficit disorder,
attention deficit hyperactivity disorder,
attention line,
attention span,
attention-getting,
attentive
British Dictionary definitions for attention deficit disorder
attention deficit disorder
noun
a disorder, particularly of children, characterized by excessive activity and inability to concentrate on one task for any length of time
Abbreviation: ADD
Medical definitions for attention deficit disorder
attention deficit disorder
[ ə-tĕn′shən ]
n.
A syndrome, usually diagnosed in childhood, characterized by a persistent pattern of impulsiveness, a short attention span, and sometimes hyperactivity, and interfering especially with academic, occupational, and social performance.
Cultural definitions for attention deficit disorder
Attention Deficit Disorder
A disorder characterized by a difficulty in retaining focus, especially on tasks, for long periods of time.
notes for Attention Deficit Disorder
One of the most common reasons children are brought into therapy, ADD is often treated with the somewhat controversial drug Ritalin®, which is thought to work by stimulating the attention-focusing structures of the
brain.