neurodivergent

adjective

neu·​ro·​di·​ver·​gent ˌnu̇r-ō-də-ˈvər-jənt 

ˌnyu̇r-

: having or relating to a disorder or condition (such as autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, dyslexia, or obsessive-compulsive disorder) that impacts the way the brain processes information : exhibiting or characteristic of variations in typical neurological development

Traveling can be stressful even under the best of circumstances. For neurodivergent travelers, schedule changes, new sights and sounds, airport delays, and unfamiliar foods can pose additional challenges.

—Jamie Davis Smith

It's also crucial when working with neurodivergent professionals to view management as an avenue for coaching. Too often, companies fire neurodivergent youth for not performing in the same way as neurotypical employees. Businesses must provide frequent, comprehensive reviews to better communicate what they need from an employee and to allow the employee to better understand how they can improve within their role.

—Brandon Cardet-Hernandez and Kevin McGrath

compare neurotypical

neurodivergent noun

plural neurodivergents

Some neurodivergents have difficulty interpreting nonverbal cues during interactions, such as subtle cues in sarcasm or flirtation …

—Maria Febiana Christanti et al.

Examples of neurodivergent in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Gilly Kahn, PhD, a clinical psychologist specializing in work with neurodivergent kids and teens, suggests varying approaches based on a child's age. —Mia Taylor, Parents, 23 Sep. 2024

This show was playing out before a crowd full of autistic adults and other neurodivergent people, many joined by their neurotypical family and friends. —Emily Alpert Reyes, Los Angeles Times, 22 Sep. 2024

This means calling attention to discrimination and unfair treatment toward neurodivergent people. —Sherri Gordon, Health, 17 Sep. 2024

It’s hoped these findings will lead to better therapy strategies for neurodivergent people. —New Atlas, 17 Sep. 2024

Producer Mike Rotman told Variety he was inspired to create this stand-up program after realizing there were no comedy shows his neurodivergent relatives would feel completely comfortable at. —Andrés Buenahora, Variety, 12 Sep. 2024

May is herself neurodivergent, and says that many writers in her region are either poor or disabled. —Meghan Herbst, WIRED, 4 Sep. 2024

Peck is neurodivergent, and describes her parents as strict and controlling. —Charley Locke, Vox, 12 Aug. 2024

Word History

Etymology

neuro- + divergent

First Known Use

2002, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

neurodivergent

adjective

neu·​ro·​di·​ver·​gent -də-ˈvər-jənt, -dī- 

: having or relating to a disorder or condition (such as autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivitydisorder, dyslexia, or obsessive-compulsive disorder) that impacts the way the brain processes information : exhibiting or characteristic of variations in typical neurological development

Neurodivergent individuals often have particular communication needs and preferences, heightened sensory sensitivity, and challenges with executive functioning. … These aspects of neurodivergent experience fundamentally impact the way neurodivergent individuals communicate and interact with others and perform professional work.

—Maitraye Das et al., Proceedings of the ACM on Human-Computer Interactions

compare neurotypical

neurodivergent noun

Some neurodivergents have difficulty interpreting nonverbal cues during interactions, such as subtle cues in sarcasm or flirtation. … While text-based communication can provide inclusive space, it can be overwhelming for neurodivergents due to the lack of nonverbal cues …

—Maria Febiana Christanti et al., International Journal of Social Science Research & Review