infantilism

[ in-fuhn-tl-iz-uhm, -tahy-liz-, in-fan-tl-iz-uhm ]

noun

1. the persistence in an adult of markedly childish anatomical, physiological, or psychological characteristics.
2. an infantile act, trait, etc., especially in an adult.
3. a speech disorder characterized by speech and voice patterns that are typical of very young children.

infantilism

/ ɪnˈfæntɪˌlɪzəm /

noun

1. psychol
   1. a condition in which an older child or adult is mentally or physically undeveloped
   2. isolated instances of infantile behaviour in mature persons
2. childish speech; baby talk

Word History and Origins

Origin of infantilism¹

First recorded in 1890–95; infantile + -ism

Example Sentences

He has transferred his repressed infantilism from the lost family circle to the crowd.

From Project Gutenberg

The significance of "infantile sexual lesions" has also tended to give place to that of "infantilism of sexuality."

From Project Gutenberg

But in mild cases it may result in a simple myxedematous infantilism.

From Project Gutenberg

The chief element in mental infantilism is maldevelopment of the will.

From Project Gutenberg

In them some degree of mental infantilism is of invariable occurrence.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• ignorance
• imperfection