disorder

IPA

Dictionary definition of disorder

A disruption or abnormality in the functioning of a person's mind, body, or behavior.
"She suffered from a neurological disorder that caused involuntary muscle spasms."

Detailed meaning of disorder

It typically involves a deviation from the normal or expected patterns, causing distress, impairment, or dysfunction in various aspects of an individual's life. Disorders can manifest in numerous forms, ranging from mental disorders, such as anxiety, depression, or schizophrenia, to physical disorders, including autoimmune diseases, genetic disorders, or hormonal imbalances. They can arise from a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Diagnosing and treating disorders often involves medical professionals and specialists who utilize diagnostic criteria, assessments, and interventions to help manage symptoms, improve quality of life, and restore overall well-being. Understanding disorders is crucial for promoting awareness, empathy, and effective support for those affected, as well as advancing research and treatment options to alleviate the burden of these conditions on individuals and society as a whole.

Example sentences containing disorder

1. The doctor diagnosed him with a sleep disorder, explaining his constant fatigue and insomnia.
2. The classroom was in disorder, with papers scattered everywhere and desks overturned.
3. She struggled with an eating disorder, seeking professional help to overcome her unhealthy relationship with food.
4. The company implemented new policies to address the disorder in the workflow and improve productivity.
5. He had a speech disorder that made it difficult for him to articulate certain sounds and words.
6. The disorder in the government led to widespread protests and calls for political reform.

History and etymology of disorder

The noun 'disorder' has an etymological history that reveals its origins in Old French and Latin. It stems from the Old French word 'desordre,' which appeared in the 13th century. In this context, 'des-' serves as a prefix indicating a reversal or negation, while 'ordre' translates to 'order' or 'arrangement.' The Old French term was influenced by Latin, particularly the word 'disordinare,' which is a combination of 'dis-' (apart) and 'ordinare' (to order or arrange). Consequently, 'disorder' etymologically signifies a disruption or abnormality in the functioning of a person's mind, body, or behavior, representing a departure from the expected or orderly state. This etymological journey underscores the concept of a lack of proper arrangement or organization.

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Further usage examples of disorder

1. The child's room was in disorder, with toys strewn across the floor and clothes piled up.
2. The disorder in the stock market led to widespread panic among investors.
3. The therapist provided strategies to manage the anxiety disorder and regain control over daily life.
4. The disorder in the crowd resulted in a stampede, causing injuries to several people.
5. He struggled with a mood disorder, experiencing intense mood swings that affected his relationships and daily functioning.
6. His anxiety disorder made social situations challenging.
7. The therapist diagnosed her with a sleep disorder.
8. The pandemic caused widespread economic disorder.
9. Substance abuse can lead to severe mental disorders.
10. The clutter in his room reflected his disorganized disorder.
11. The doctor is treating her for an autoimmune disorder.
12. Post-traumatic stress disorder can be debilitating.
13. The riot resulted in a state of public disorder.
14. Attention deficit disorder affects concentration.
15. He struggled with an eating disorder for years.
16. Bipolar disorder can involve extreme mood swings.
17. The therapist helped him manage his obsessive-compulsive disorder.
18. The military intervened to restore order amid the disorder.
19. She's coping with a neurological disorder that affects mobility.
20. The doctor prescribed medication for his mood disorder.
21. The therapist specializes in treating mood disorders.
22. The protest escalated into a state of civil disorder.
23. Her bipolar disorder required ongoing therapy.
24. The pandemic created supply chain disorder.
25. His disorder led to impulsive decision-making.