neurodiversity
noun
neu·ro·di·ver·si·ty
ˌnu̇r-ō-də-ˈvər-sə-tē 
-dī-,
ˌnyu̇r-
1
: individual differences in brain functioning regarded as normal variations within the human population
Perhaps our difficulty in accepting and adjusting to these differences points to a limited understanding of the neurodiversity that surrounds us.—
Serena Puang
Serena Puang2
: the concept that differences in brain functioning within the human population are normal, that brain functioning that is not neurotypical should not be stigmatized, and that people with neurodivergent brain functioning should not be excluded from groups, organizations, etc.
Neurodiversity is the idea that variation in brain function exists across the population. Differences such as autism and ADHD have existed throughout human history and are not due to faulty neural circuitry. Rather than viewing them as such, neurodiversity embraces autism as a different way of thinking and behaving.—Psychology Today
Psychology TodayThey're committed to neurodiversity, a term used to advocate for the inclusion of people who think and communicate differently—like those with autism and ADHD.—Kara Stiles
Kara StilesExamples of neurodiversity in a Sentence
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Research from Concordia University further emphasizes that neurodiversity contributes meaningfully to innovation across industries, showing that diverse neurological wiring can fuel not just scientific discovery but vibrant storytelling, artistic expression, and problem-solving.
—Jennifer Jay Palumbo, Forbes.com, 28 Apr. 2025
And make sure that talking about neurodiversity is something that is included in our education systems.
—As Told To Jessica Radloff, Glamour, 15 Apr. 2025
The scope of ethical responsibility is expanding and now encompasses data privacy, AI ethics, neurodiversity, mental health and intergenerational equity.
—Laurence Lim, WWD, 11 Mar. 2025
The push for authenticity must include the full spectrum of human diversity—race, gender identity, disability, age, neurodiversity, and body type.
—Kate Hardcastle, Forbes.com, 15 Apr. 2025
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Jennifer Jay Palumbo, Forbes.com, 28 Apr. 2025
And make sure that talking about neurodiversity is something that is included in our education systems.
—As Told To Jessica Radloff, Glamour, 15 Apr. 2025
The scope of ethical responsibility is expanding and now encompasses data privacy, AI ethics, neurodiversity, mental health and intergenerational equity.
—Laurence Lim, WWD, 11 Mar. 2025
The push for authenticity must include the full spectrum of human diversity—race, gender identity, disability, age, neurodiversity, and body type.
—Kate Hardcastle, Forbes.com, 15 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for neurodiversity
Cite this Entry
“Neurodiversity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/neurodiversity. Accessed 14 May. 2025.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
neurodiversity
noun
neu·ro·di·ver·si·ty
-də-ˈvər-sə-tē, -dī-
1
: individual differences in brain functioning regarded as normal variations within the human population
… parents are expressing reservations about enrolling their child in early intervention programs, citing concerns that such programs do not value neurodiversity and, instead, prioritize changing their child's behavior to fit neurotypical norms.—Geraldine Dawson et al., JAMA Pediatrics
Geraldine Dawson et al., JAMA Pediatrics2
: the concept that differences in brain functioning within the human population are normal, that brain functioning that is not neurotypical should not be stigmatized, and that people with neurodivergent brain functioning should not be excluded from groups, organizations, etc.
The neurodiversity movement holds that ASD [=autism spectrum disorder] is characterized not merely by impediments, but also by normal functioning, as well as cognitive strengths. ASD, on this account, may be best understood as a cognitive difference, not as a shortcoming.—Deborah R. Barnbaum, Ethics and Neurodiversity
Deborah R. Barnbaum, Ethics and NeurodiversityLove words? Need even more definitions?
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