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.

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Etymology

Origin of autism spectrum disorder

First recorded in 1990–95

Example Sentences

The company says it is developing traditional Chinese medicine, primarily herbal formulas, to treat autism spectrum disorder and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 27, 2026

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

Kennedy is correct that autism spectrum disorder rates have risen steadily in the U.S. since the U.S.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 24, 2025

Today one in 31 U.S. 8-year-olds has been identified as having autism spectrum disorder, according to the most recent CDC data, up from one in 150 in 2000.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 22, 2025

Today, diagnostic manuals refer simply to autism spectrum disorder, or ASD, which includes people previously diagnosed with Asperger's or PDD-NOS.

From BBC • May 2, 2025