autist

noun

au·​tist ˈȯ-ˌtist 

plural autists

: a person affected with autism : autistic

Word History

Etymology

aut(ism) + -ist entry 1

First Known Use

1922, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

autist

noun

au·​tist ˈȯ-ˌtist 

sometimes offensive

: autistic

Note: While this term is used by some autistic people to refer to themselves, it may be considered offensive when used by someone who is not autistic.