developmental disability

[ dih-vel-uhp-muhn-tl dis-uh-bil-i-tee ]

noun

1. a disability, as autism spectrum disorder or cerebral palsy, that impairs physical, intellectual, language, or other development, beginning at an early age and continuing indefinitely, impacting day-to-day functioning.

developmental disability

/ dĭ-vĕl′əp-mĕn′tl /

1. A mental or physical disability, such as cerebral palsy or mental retardation, that is present during childhood, interferes with normal physical, intellectual, or emotional development, and usually lasts throughout life.

Other Words From

• de·vel·op·men·tal·ly dis·a·bled [dih-vel-, uh, p-, muhn, -tl-ee dis-, ey, -b, uh, ld] adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of developmental disability¹

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

Arizona has long enjoyed a reputation for having the best services in the country for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

From ProPublica

The state, which prized itself on its reputation for providing top-notch services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, took action immediately.

From ProPublica

In one recent case, a health aide working for a private company under contract with the state had sex with a person with a developmental disability.

From ProPublica

The state system that is supposed to provide help to families who keep loved ones with developmental disabilities at home is still largely a mystery to her, even though she’s dealt with it for decades.

From ProPublica

The Arizona Daily Star and ProPublica wrote a story about people with developmental disabilities in Arizona.

From ProPublica

The fact that he was slow to speak is suggestive of some kind of developmental disability.

From The Daily Beast