DOWN SYNDROME Definition & Meaning

Down syndrome

or Down's syndrome

noun

Pathology.

a genetic disorder, associated with the presence of an extra chromosome 21, characterized by mild to severe mental impairment, weak muscle tone, shorter stature, and a flattened facial profile.

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Sensitive Note

Down syndrome (or Down's syndrome ) has replaced earlier terms, such as mongolism to refer to the disease and Mongoloid or Mongol to refer to the affected person, all of which are now considered offensive.

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�y��vlog History and Origins

Origin of Down syndrome¹

First recorded in 1960–65; after John L. H. Down (1828–96), British physician

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

What will become of our youngest students with Down syndrome and other intellectual and developmental disabilities without the backing of skilled and compassionate educators at the government's highest levels?

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Amelia, who has Down syndrome, receives access to a program that helps participants learn how to socialize with others.

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Typically, results are either normal, indicating the fetus doesn’t have certain chromosomal disorders such as Down syndrome, or abnormal, indicating it likely does.

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During the day she worked as an aide for a girl with Down syndrome, and at night she was a barista at Dutch Bros., her father said.

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Ohio’s ban on abortions because of a Down syndrome diagnosis remains in effect, following a federal court decision in 2021.

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