autistic
|au-tis-tic|
/ˌɔːˈtɪstɪk/
self-withdrawal; characteristics of autism
Etymology
'autistic' originates from the noun 'autism,' which in English comes from German 'Autismus' and ultimately from Greek 'autos,' where 'autos' meant 'self'.
'autistic' formed in English as an adjective from 'autism' (from German 'Autismus'), and 'autism' itself was coined in modern psychiatric usage in the early 20th century (German/English), based on Greek 'autos' ('self').
Initially related to the Greek root meaning 'self' (self-contained, self-directed), the modern term evolved in medicine to mean the neurodevelopmental condition 'autism' and then adjectivally to describe traits related to that condition; colloquial uses later broadened (sometimes pejoratively) to mean 'aloof' or 'highly focused'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a person who has autism; used especially in identity-first language (e.g., 'an autistic').
Many autistic people prefer identity-first language: 'autistic person' rather than 'person with autism.'
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Adjective 1
relating to, characterized by, or affected by autism — a neurodevelopmental condition involving differences in social communication and restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior or interests.
She is autistic and receives support at school for social communication.
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Adjective 2
marked by traits stereotypically associated with autism (informal). This usage can be vague or pejorative — e.g., meaning intensely focused, socially withdrawn, or uninterested in others.
Calling someone 'autistic' to mean 'awkward' or 'distant' is offensive and inaccurate.
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Last updated: 2025/08/25 14:05