autism spectrum disorder

American  

[aw-tiz-uhm spek-truhm dis-awr-der] / ˈɔ tɪz əm ˈspɛk trəm dɪsˌɔr dər /

noun

Psychiatry.

1. a developmental disability of highly variable presentation characterized by social and communication differences, repetitive behaviors, or a restricted range of interests, and which commonly manifests in early childhood.

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Etymology

Origin of autism spectrum disorder

First recorded in 1990–95

Example Sentences

The company says it is developing traditional Chinese medicine, primarily herbal formulas, to treat autism spectrum disorder and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 27, 2026

Studies have found that up to 80% of adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder also have at least one additional mental health condition such as depression or anxiety.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 20, 2025

When Anthony Tricarico was diagnosed at 7 with autism spectrum disorder, his parents, Neal and Samara, were told that he might need extra support at school, so they made sure he got it.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 20, 2025

This expanded criteria makes discussions about curing or preventing autism incredibly fraught, because the label autism spectrum disorder is now such a big tent.

From Slate • Sep. 25, 2025

She said schools could find it difficult to support children as the number of diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder and other conditions had increased.

From BBC • Sep. 3, 2025