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

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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.

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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

Under legislation in England, Wales and Scotland, there is a 24-week time limit for abortion, unless "there is a substantial risk that if the child were born it would suffer from such physical or mental abnormalities as to be seriously handicapped", which includes Down's syndrome.

From BBC

A woman with Down's syndrome fighting against abortion laws says she is ecstatic she has won the right to appeal against a High Court ruling.

From BBC

The coroner's report said he had Down's Syndrome, severe learning disability and sleep apnoea.

From BBC

They concluded that those with severe neurodisabilities, Down's syndrome, a severely weakened immune system or profound learning disabilities should be offered a jab - along with over-12s who live with someone with a weak immune system.

From BBC

The list of eligibility currently includes those with severe neuro-disabilities, Down's Syndrome, underlying conditions resulting in immunosuppression, and those with profound and multiple learning disabilities, severe learning disabilities or who are on the learning disability register.

From BBC