# PTSD

/ˌpiˈtiˌɛsˈdi/ (US) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/ptsd
Updated: 2026-05-10

## Definition

Stands for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. A mental health condition that can develop after you experience or witness a terrifying event. It causes flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety that do not go away on their own.

For teachers: Abbreviation for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. A psychological disorder triggered by exposure to a traumatic event, characterised by intrusive memories, avoidance, and hyperarousal.

## Examples

- She seeks therapy to manage her PTSD symptoms.
- The veteran struggles with PTSD after returning from years of active combat duty.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.