Autism is a developmental disorder that can cause someone to have difficulty in communicating with and responding to other people.
autism in British English
(ˈɔːtɪzəm)
noun
psychiatry
a developmental condition characterized by difficulties with social communication and interaction, and restricted and repetitive behaviours and interests
Derived forms
autistic (auˈtistic)
adjective
Word origin
C20: from Greek autos self + -ism
autism in American English
(ˈɔˌtɪzəm)
US
noun
Psychology
a developmental disorder characterized variously by impaired social interaction, difficulties in communicating, problems with seeing and hearing, repetitive behavior, etc.
Derived forms
autistic (ɔˈtɪstɪk)
adjective
Word origin
auto- + -ism
In other languages
autism
British English: autism NOUN
Autism is a mental disorder that makes someone unable to relate to other people.