fragile X syndrome

[ fraj-uhl eks sin-drohm, -druhm; British frajahyl ]

noun

1. an inherited genetic disorder caused by a faulty gene on the X chromosome and having various possible effects, including developmental delays in infancy and early childhood, learning disabilities, intellectual disability, and a number of social, behavioral, and physical difficulties.

fragile-X syndrome

noun

1. an inherited condition characterized by mental subnormality: affected individuals have an X-chromosome that is easily damaged under certain conditions

Word History and Origins

Origin of fragile X syndrome¹

First recorded in 1980–85