VocabDictionary

autistic

/ɔːˈtɪstɪk/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.adjective

Relating to or characteristic of autism; having a developmental condition characterized by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication, and repetitive behaviors, often accompanied by unique strengths and intense focus.

Example Sentences:
  • She is a proud advocate for the autistic community and neurodiversity.
  • The school designed a specialized sensory-friendly environment for autistic students.
2.noun

A person who has autism (often used and preferred as identity-first language within the neurodiversity community).

Example Sentences:
  • Many autistics prefer identity-first language rather than person-first language.
  • The conference featured several speakers who are openly autistic.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “autistic”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the neo-Latin 'autismus' (coined by Swiss psychiatrist Eugen Bleuler in 1910 from the Greek 'autos', meaning 'self') combined with the English suffix '-ic'. Originally used to describe a symptom of schizophrenia involving withdrawal into oneself, the term was later adopted in the mid-20th century by Leo Kanner and Hans Asperger to describe the distinct developmental condition known today as autism spectrum disorder.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'auto' (self) to remember that autism involves turning inward to one's own unique internal world and perspective.

Frequently Asked Questions About “autistic

1. What is the meaning of “autistic” in English?

In English, autistic (adjective) is defined as: “Relating to or characteristic of autism; having a developmental condition characterized by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication, and repetitive behaviors, often accompanied by unique strengths and intense focus.”.

2. How do you use “autistic” in a sentence?

She is a proud advocate for the autistic community and neurodiversity.

3. What are English synonyms of “autistic”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “autistic”?

Derived from the neo-Latin 'autismus' (coined by Swiss psychiatrist Eugen Bleuler in 1910 from the Greek 'autos', meaning 'self') combined with the English suffix '-ic'. Originally used to describe a symptom of schizophrenia involving withdrawal into oneself, the term was later adopted in the mid-20th century by Leo Kanner and Hans Asperger to describe the distinct developmental condition known today as autism spectrum disorder.