Down syndrome

noun

variants or Down's syndrome

: a congenital condition characterized especially by developmental delays, usually mild to moderate impairment in cognitive functioning, short stature, upward slanting eyes, a flattened nasal bridge, broad hands with short fingers, decreased muscle tone, and by trisomy of the human chromosome numbered 21

called also trisomy 21

Examples of Down syndrome in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This can include children who have autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, Down syndrome, physical disabilities, or any condition that sets them apart. —Sherri Gordon, Clc, Parents, 20 June 2024

Aston, who police say had Down syndrome, was pronounced dead at a local hospital. —Emily Palmer, Peoplemag, 13 June 2024

And Erskine dedicated his entire life to raising and caring for his son, Jimmy, who was born with Down syndrome. —Bill Madden, New York Daily News, 16 Apr. 2024

The brand has since released dolls with disabilities, such as Down syndrome, prosthetic legs and wheelchairs. —Eva Roytburg, Fortune, 8 June 2024

Word History

Etymology

J. L. H. Down †1896 English physician

First Known Use

1961, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

Down syndrome

noun

ˈdau̇n-

variants or Down's syndrome

ˈdau̇n(z)-

: a genetic condition characterized especially by developmental delays, by distinctive physical traits (as short stature and upward slanting eyes), and by the presence of three chromosomes numbered 21 in human beings

Etymology

named for J.L.H. Down, 1828–1896, English doctor

Medical Definition

Down syndrome

noun

variants or Down's syndrome

: a congenital condition characterized especially by developmental delays, usually mild to moderate impairment in cognitive functioning, short stature, relatively small head, upward slanting eyes usually with epicanthal folds, flattened nasal bridge, broad hands with short fingers, decreased muscle tone, and by trisomy of the human chromosome numbered 21

called also Down, Down's, trisomy 21