autism spectrum disorder

[ aw-tiz-uhm spek-truhm dis-awr-der ]

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. spectrum disorder.

Word History and Origins

Origin of autism spectrum disorder¹

First recorded in 1990–95

Example Sentences

“Anyone who has a valid diagnosis of ASD [autism-spectrum disorder] now should not have to get a rediagnosis,” she said.

From The Daily Beast