autistic

[ aw-tis-tik ]

adjective

1. relating to or having autism spectrum disorder:

   The researchers are compiling advice on supporting wellness in autistic adults.

   She and her son are both autistic.

   We are a national grassroots disability rights organization for the autistic community.

noun

1. Also au·tist []. a person with autism spectrum disorder:

   It's just an opinion, but it's based on my own experience and conversations with fellow autistics.

Other Words From

• au·tis·ti·cal·ly adverb
• un·au·tis·tic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of autistic¹

First recorded in 1942; aut(ism) ( def ) + -istic ( def )

Example Sentences

For autistic children, Carl can be a mirror, a character they may see in themselves.

From Los Angeles Times

A mother whose autistic son has spent 10 months in hospital has said he is being locked away and robbed of a future.

From BBC

That was until he discovered he was autistic at the age of 70.

From BBC

I learned that he found out he was autistic in middle age but always thought he was neurodivergent, even if that term was not yet in the zeitgeist.

From Los Angeles Times

Candice Gonzalez, a widow caring for three autistic children in the Detroit suburbs, said she was picking Harris as “the lesser of two evils.”

From Los Angeles Times