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developmentally disabled

  • a word derived from developmental disability.
    developmental disability
    noun
    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.

Example Sentences

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Clara is developmentally disabled due to a childhood accident; Margaret’s efforts to keep her safe gradually give way to a fuller understanding of her daughter’s awakening, and the lovelessness of her own marriage.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 15, 2026

My brother, who has cerebral palsy and is developmentally disabled, is two years older than I am.

From MarketWatch ● Mar. 10, 2026

She made sure to flag her address for the Fullerton Police Department so it knew her son was developmentally disabled.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 27, 2024

Over the past decade, however, it has been increasingly common to see art by developmentally disabled artists integrated, without contextual fanfare, into group shows or biennials.

From New York Times ● May 7, 2024

After graduating from North Carolina A&T, Blair left the state for a job in Massachusetts, where he continues to live, working with developmentally disabled adults.

From "The Best of Enemies" by Osha Gray Davidson

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