The Open Dictionary

add

noun

UK/ˌeɪ.diːˈdiː/
US/ˌeɪ.diːˈdiː/

Definitions of add noun

  1. Uncountable

    An abbreviation for Attention Deficit Disorder, a term predominantly used in the 1980s to describe a condition where an individual, particularly a child, exhibits hyperactivity or impulsiveness, alongside difficulty in sustaining focus.

    • Individuals diagnosed with ADHD, previously referred to as ADD, often experience challenges in maintaining focus on tasks, managing their time effectively, and adhering to instructions.

    • She mentioned that her child's teacher suspected he might have ADD.

    • During the 1980s, many children received a diagnosis of ADD.

verb

UK/æd/
US/æd/

Definitions of add verb

  1. A2TransitiveIntransitive

    To combine two or more numbers or quantities to find their sum.

    • The total comes to $75 if you add in the service charge.

    • Remember to add your incidental expenses to the total.

    • We'll keep a running total and add the tax at the end of the transaction.

  2. A2TransitiveIntransitive

    To incorporate something with another to increase the quantity, amount, or improve the overall result.

    • The company recently added a new software application to its product line.

    • Slowly add the milk to the flour, stirring constantly.

    • His late arrival only added to the tension of the meeting.

  3. B1TransitiveIntransitive

    To state something further or to continue speaking, often to provide additional information.

    • She expressed her disappointment with the outcome, but added that she respected the decision.

    • "Please make sure to get these files to me as soon as possible," he added as he was heading out.

    • "I agree with your point," he added, "but we also need to take other factors into consideration."

Idioms

  • not add up

    If a situation does not add up, it means there is no logical or believable explanation for it, making it seem suspicious or unlikely.

    • He claimed he was working from home, but he never answered his phone; it just doesn't add up.

  • to add insult to injury

    To make a bad situation even worse; to further upset or offend someone who has already been wronged or hurt.

    • I was already late, and then to add insult to injury, I fell while trying to catch the bus.

Phrasal Verbs of add

  • add (something) up

    to determine the sum of two or more numbers

    • While calculating, I found that all the expenses added up exactly to the company's revenue.

  • add on something

    to incorporate or construct an additional element or structure

    • He decided to add on a bedroom to his house.