autistic

1 of 2

adjective

au·​tis·​tic ȯ-ˈti-stik How to pronounce autistic (audio)
: of, relating to, or marked by autism or autism spectrum disorder
autistic behavior
autistic children
autistically adverb

autistic

2 of 2

noun

plural autistics
: a person with autism or autism spectrum disorder

Examples of autistic in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Adjective
There is a need for investment in autism services across the lifespan, ranging from adequate support in schools to job training for autistic adults. Dr. Sunny Patel, Time, 2 Oct. 2025 Its use to treat autism grew after studies suggested that some autistic children have trouble transporting folate into the brain, explains Sutera. Sherri Gordon, Parents, 2 Oct. 2025
Noun
Phothong is non-verbal autistic and considered at risk, according to the Sacramento Police Department. Rosalio Ahumada, Sacbee.com, 5 Sep. 2025 Diagnosed autistic at age 3, DesRoches has defied expectations to build a fast-rising acting career. Matt Grobar, Deadline, 25 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for autistic

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

aut(ism) + -istic, after German autistisch

Note: See note at autism.

Noun

derivative of autistic entry 1

First Known Use

Adjective

1942, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1968, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of autistic was in 1942

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Cite this Entry

“Autistic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/autistic. Accessed 8 Oct. 2025.

Medical Definition

autistic

1 of 2 adjective
au·​tis·​tic ȯ-ˈtis-tik How to pronounce autistic (audio)
: of, relating to, or marked by autism or autism spectrum disorder
the autistic community
autistic children

autistic

2 of 2 noun
: a person with autism or autism spectrum disorder

More from Merriam-Webster on autistic

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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