Down syndrome

American  

Or Down's syndrome

noun

Pathology.

1. a genetic disorder, associated with the presence of an extra chromosome 21, characterized by mild to severe mental impairment, weak muscle tone, shorter stature, and a flattened facial profile.

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Sensitive Note

Down syndrome (or Down's syndrome ) has replaced earlier terms, such as mongolism to refer to the disease and Mongoloid or Mongol to refer to the affected person, all of which are now considered offensive.

Etymology

Origin of Down syndrome

First recorded in 1960–65; after John L. H. Down (1828–96), British physician

Example Sentences

One of Yousuf’s aunts, who has Down syndrome, painfully asks nearly every day, “Why did Yousuf die? He was too young,” while weeping.

From Washington Post

Down syndrome abortion bans have gained traction recently in several GOP-controlled states, most recently in Arizona and South Dakota.

From Seattle Times

In the video, Davis explains that 30-year-old Miles has Down syndrome and checks the mail every day.

From Fox News

She is saving the money she earns from stripping to fund a group home for people with Down syndrome, which her sister has.

From New York Times

At issue is a 2019 state law that would ban abortions as early as eight weeks into a pregnancy and prohibit abortions based on a Down syndrome diagnosis.

From Seattle Times