Down's syndrome

British  

noun

1. 1. Former name: mongolism.  Technical name: trisomy 21.  offensive  pathol a condition caused by the presence of an extra copy of chromosome 21 resulting in learning difficulties and physical differences, such as shorter stature

   2. ( as modifier )

      a Down's syndrome baby

---

Down's syndrome Cultural  

1. A congenital condition, caused by an abnormality in the chromosomes, marked by moderate to severe mental retardation and changes in certain physical features.

---

Usage

Although the condition was once generally known as mongolism , this term has been considered offensive since the early 1960s. The terms Down's syndrome or ( US ) Down syndrom are now preferred.

Etymology

Origin of Down's syndrome

C19: after John Langdon-Down (1828–96), English physician

Example Sentences

Under legislation in England, Wales and Scotland, there is a 24-week time limit for abortion, unless "there is a substantial risk that if the child were born it would suffer from such physical or mental abnormalities as to be seriously handicapped", which includes Down's syndrome.

From BBC

A woman with Down's syndrome fighting against abortion laws says she is ecstatic she has won the right to appeal against a High Court ruling.

From BBC

Debbie Leitch, 24, who had Down's syndrome, died at her home in Blackpool in August 2019.

From BBC

Debbie Leitch, 24, who had Down's syndrome, died at her home in South Shore, Blackpool, on 29 August 2019.

From BBC

The most significant cut to the finale, which also affected the prior episodes, was the removal of a plotline where Jane becomes pregnant with a baby who has Down’s syndrome.

From Los Angeles Times