spectrum disorder

noun

, Psychiatry.

1. any of a group of disorders each having symptoms that occur on a continuum and certain features that are shared along its spectrum but that manifest in markedly different forms and degrees. autism spectrum disorder.

Word History and Origins

Origin of spectrum disorder¹

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

These factors, as well as his autism spectrum disorder, had all affected his decision making, he said.

From BBC

The court heard MacPhail had been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and a low IQ but Mr Brooke said the youth's functioning was "quite a bit higher" than had been suggested by MacPhail's legal team.

From BBC

At church, she met someone who was diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome, a condition that today would be considered autism spectrum disorder.

From Slate

So far, there doesn’t seem to have been much research into the genetic underpinnings of gaze following in animals — although there has been some looking at humans, in whom impaired gaze following can be a sign of conditions such as autism spectrum disorder.

From Salon

Autism spectrum disorder is a complex neurological and developmental condition that manifests differently in nearly every individual who has it.

From Los Angeles Times