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.

---

Etymology

Origin of autism spectrum disorder

First recorded in 1990–95

Example Sentences

The diagnostic definition has changed dramatically in that time, inscribing children with a broad range of abilities, needs and behaviors within a single term: autism spectrum disorder.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 20, 2025

Multiple researchers have argued that the rise in autism spectrum disorder diagnoses is better explained by an expanding diagnostic definition of the disorder, along with better monitoring and diagnosis for more children.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 20, 2025

In 2013, the DSM collapsed the subtypes of autism and created one autism spectrum disorder with three levels of severity.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 22, 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

Ward 7A is an eight-bed unit that provides assessment and treatment for patients who have complex health care needs, often associated with a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder.

From BBC • Jul. 1, 2025