Word
neurodivergent
Meanings
Having a brain that functions differently from what is considered typical, especially in areas such as attention, communication, learning, or sensory processing.
Definition
Neurodivergent describes a person whose brain processes information in ways that differ from what is considered typical.
Neurodivergent is an adjective used to describe people with cognitive or neurological differences compared with the majority. It is often used as an inclusive, nonjudgmental term in discussions about learning, communication, attention, and sensory processing. People may use it as a self-description or in broader conversations about neurodiversity. It does not specify a single diagnosis on its own.
Examples
- As a neurodivergent employee, I asked for meeting agendas in advance so I could contribute more thoughtfully.
- She describes her son as neurodivergent and says predictable routines help him feel settled at school.
- They built a sensory-friendly corner for neurodivergent visitors, with dim lighting and comfortable seating.
- Our team tried several communication styles until we found one that worked well for a neurodivergent colleague.
- You don’t need to disclose personal details to support neurodivergent students in a respectful, practical way.
Common mistake
Learners sometimes use neurodivergent as a noun (e.g., “a neurodivergent”) instead of saying “a neurodivergent person” or “someone who is neurodivergent.”
More at C1 level
- ubiquitous Present, appearing, or found everywhere at the same time.
- xenophobia Xenophobia is a strong dislike or fear of people from other countries or cultures.
- genocide Genocide is the deliberate killing of a large number of people from a particular group in order to …
- conundrum A conundrum is a confusing and difficult problem to solve.
- pretentious Trying to seem more important, intelligent, or cultured than you really are.
More adjectives
- agnostic An agnostic is someone who does not claim to know whether God exists.
- pragmatic Pragmatic means focused on practical results rather than ideals or theories.
- ubiquitous Present, appearing, or found everywhere at the same time.
- cynical Cynical describes believing that people are mainly motivated by self-interest and not sincere.
- apathetic Apathetic means showing little or no interest, concern, or enthusiasm.