Down's syndrome

British  

noun

1. 1. Former name: mongolism.  Technical name: trisomy 21.  offensive pathol a condition caused by the presence of an extra copy of chromosome 21 resulting in learning difficulties and physical differences, such as shorter stature

   2. ( as modifier )

      a Down's syndrome baby

---

Down's syndrome Cultural  

1. A congenital condition, caused by an abnormality in the chromosomes, marked by moderate to severe mental retardation and changes in certain physical features.

---

Usage

Although the condition was once generally known as mongolism , this term has been considered offensive since the early 1960s. The terms Down's syndrome or ( US ) Down syndrom are now preferred.

Etymology

Origin of Down's syndrome

C19: after John Langdon-Down (1828–96), English physician

Example Sentences

In the well-maintained gardens, young adults – some with Down's syndrome, others with cerebral palsy, and autism - carefully tend their crops.

From BBC • Apr. 5, 2026

It comes after the BBC flagged dozens of profiles showing AI-generated images of women with disabilities, including Down's syndrome or vitiligo.

From BBC • Feb. 26, 2026

Joel has Down's syndrome, among other health conditions but paediatrician Dr Niamh Lynch said flu could be serious for any child.

From BBC • Jan. 13, 2026

The star has a sister with Down's syndrome called Grace, and has previously released a song about her titled My G.

From BBC • Nov. 11, 2025

But Goldstein - who is the first star with Down's syndrome to take part in a regular series of the dance show - also gave an insight into what she is most looking forward to.

From BBC • Sep. 26, 2025