developmental disability

American  

[dih-vel-uhp-muhn-tl dis-uh-bil-i-tee] / dɪˌvɛl əpˈmən tl ˌdɪs əˈbɪl ɪ ti /

noun

1. a disability, as autism spectrum disorder or cerebral palsy, that impairs physical, intellectual, language, or other development, beginning at an early age and continuing indefinitely, impacting day-to-day functioning.

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developmental disability Scientific  

/ dĭ-vĕl′əp-mĕn′tl /

1. A mental or physical disability, such as cerebral palsy or mental retardation, that is present during childhood, interferes with normal physical, intellectual, or emotional development, and usually lasts throughout life.

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Other Word Forms

• developmentally disabled adjective

Etymology

Origin of developmental disability

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

That final goal is the “bedrock” of Georgia’s mental health and developmental disability system, Goico said.

From Salon • Nov. 26, 2024

Experts recommend that caregivers to children younger than 6 years old and adults with a history of dementia, Alzheimer's disease or developmental disability use traditional laundry detergents instead of packets.

From Science Daily • Jan. 22, 2024

One mother of a 5-year old boy in Arcadia who was expelled three times suspects he that has an undiagnosed developmental disability.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 4, 2023

Mandating developmental disability services in adulthood and investing in home- and community-based care are not optional.

From Scientific American • Sep. 13, 2023

The housing limbo is especially stressful, she said, because her 21-year-old son has a developmental disability and stays at the hotel while she’s working.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 22, 2023