spectrum disorder

American  

noun

Psychiatry.

1. any of a group of disorders each having symptoms that occur on a continuum and certain features that are shared along its spectrum but that manifest in markedly different forms and degrees.

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Etymology

Origin of spectrum disorder

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

spectrum disorder

Mutations in NRXN1 have previously been associated with autism spectrum disorder.

From Science Daily ● Sep. 4, 2026

The CDC estimated that the number of children identified with autism spectrum disorder in 2000 was about one in 150.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 10, 2026

However, it is known as a "spectrum disorder" as the condition affects people in different ways and to varying degrees.

From BBC ● May 16, 2026

“Studies have shown that there is no link between receiving vaccines and developing autism spectrum disorder ... No links have been found between any vaccine ingredients and ASD.”

From Los Angeles Times ● Nov. 25, 2025

Multiple researchers have argued that the rise in autism spectrum disorder diagnoses is better explained by an expanding diagnostic definition of the disorder, along with better monitoring and diagnosis for more children.

From Los Angeles Times ● Nov. 20, 2025