adj Uncommon

OCD

OCD (adj) means showing obsessive, perfectionistic tendencies, often used loosely to describe someone who likes things a certain way (informally referencing obsessive-compulsive disorder). Example: “He's so OCD about his desk — everything has to line up perfectly.”

adj

Showing obsessive, perfectionistic tendencies, often used loosely to describe someone who likes things a certain way (informally referencing obsessive-compulsive disorder).

"He's so OCD about his desk — everything has to line up perfectly."

How to use OCD

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA casual way of describing someone who is very particular or fussy about order and routine.

When to use it

Using "OCD" this way is informal and can trivialise the actual mental health condition — be mindful of context.

Word forms

more OCD comparative, most OCD superlative

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He's so _____ about his desk — everything has to line up perfectly.

Frequently asked questions

What does “OCD” mean?

The word “OCD” means showing obsessive, perfectionistic tendencies, often used loosely to describe someone who likes things a certain way (informally referencing obsessive-compulsive disorder). In plain terms, a casual way of describing someone who is very particular or fussy about order and routine.

How do you use “OCD” in a sentence?

Here is “OCD” used in a sentence: “He's so OCD about his desk — everything has to line up perfectly.”

What part of speech is “OCD”?

“OCD” is an adjective.

Is “OCD” a common word?

“OCD” is an uncommon word in modern English.