developmental disorder

noun

plural developmental disorders
: a condition (such as autism spectrum disorder or dyslexia) that is typically marked by delayed development or impaired function especially in learning, language, communication, cognition, behavior, socialization, or mobility : developmental disability
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is the name for a group of developmental disorders that include a wide range of symptoms, skills and levels of disability.Meredith Moss

Examples of developmental disorder in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Tesla and SpaceX CEO tapped to lead Trump's Department of Government Efficiency has Asperger's syndrome, a developmental disorder falling under the autism spectrum that could hinder social interactions and the ability to decipher body language. Dan Perry, Newsweek, 30 Jan. 2025 The Biden administration took steps to further improve it, including funding to replace lead pipes and new rules to monitor forever chemicals like perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, which have been linked to cancer and developmental disorders. Bill Sullivan, The Conversation, 27 Jan. 2025 Fewer cases have also been found in baseball, basketball, intimate partner violence, and individuals with developmental disorders who engaged in head banging behaviors. Diana Leyva, The Tennessean, 10 July 2024 Autism spectrum disorder is a neurological and developmental disorder affecting how people communicate, interact with others, learn and behave. Eduardo Cuevas, USA TODAY, 14 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for developmental disorder 

Word History

First Known Use

1919, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of developmental disorder was in 1919

Dictionary Entries Near developmental disorder

Cite this Entry

“Developmental disorder.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/developmental%20disorder. Accessed 20 Feb. 2025.

Medical Definition

developmental disorder

noun
: a condition (such as autism spectrum disorder or dyslexia) that is typically marked by delayed development or impaired function especially in learning, language, communication, cognition, behavior, socialization, or mobility : developmental disability
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