Disorder Meaning
Disorder Definition & Usage
A state of confusion, lack of order, or disturbance.
Examples
- "The room was in complete disorder, with papers strewn everywhere."
- "His mind was filled with disorder after the shocking news."
- "The government struggled to regain control after the disorder caused by the protests."
- "The kitchen was in disorder after the dinner party, with dishes everywhere."
- "The town descended into disorder following the announcement of the economic collapse."
A medical or psychological condition characterized by irregularity or dysfunction.
Examples
- "She was diagnosed with a personality disorder."
- "The patient suffers from a severe eating disorder."
- "Attention deficit disorder (ADD) can make it hard for children to concentrate."
- "Mental disorders can manifest in many different ways, such as anxiety or depression."
- "His behavioral disorder required long-term therapy and medication."
Cultural Context
The word 'disorder' comes from the Latin 'disordinatus,' meaning 'out of order.' It has been in common use in English since the 14th century. Its meanings have evolved, encompassing both general confusion and more specific medical or psychological conditions.
The Breaking Point
Story
The Breaking Point
On a cold winter’s evening, the town of Briarwood was thrown into disorder when a massive storm knocked out power lines and flooded streets. With the local emergency services overwhelmed, panic spread among the residents. In the midst of this chaos, Emma stood in the middle of her home, trying to keep her family calm. The living room was filled with scattered papers, emergency kits, and a few flashlights, all reflecting the disorder of the outside world. As the storm raged on, her mind raced with worries, not only about the storm but also about a troubling thought: her brother, Ben, had been diagnosed with a severe eating disorder, a secret he’d kept from everyone. It felt as though her world, too, was slowly descending into disorder. The fear of losing control over both her family’s safety and Ben’s health was almost too much to bear. But through it all, Emma remained steadfast, deciding that she would not let the disorder around her define the outcome. By morning, the storm passed, and while the town slowly restored order, Emma knew the real challenge—helping Ben—was just beginning.
Related Words
