intellectual disability
noun
Note: The term intellectual disability is now preferred over mental retardation in medical, educational, and regulatory contexts, as well as in general use. The term mental retardation is increasingly considered offensive, though it was the dominant term into the second decade of the current century.
Examples of intellectual disability in a Sentence
Michaela Ramm, USA Today, 22 Apr. 2025
My mind immediately goes to my adult daughter, who is on the autism spectrum with intellectual disabilities.
—Letters To The Editor, The Orlando Sentinel, 17 Apr. 2025
Medicaid cuts would be devastating for some of the most vulnerable people in Illinois — individuals with intellectual disabilities.
—Chicago Tribune, 16 Apr. 2025
In 1962, Eunice Kennedy Shriver started a sports camp for people with intellectual disabilities, which became the Special Olympics.
—Shayla Love, The Atlantic, 4 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for intellectual disability
Cite this Entry
“Intellectual disability.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/intellectual%20disability. Accessed 26 Apr. 2025.
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intellectual disability
nounNote: The term intellectual disability is now preferred over mental retardation in medical, educational, and regulatory contexts, as well as in general use. The term mental retardation is increasingly considered offensive, though it was the dominant term into the second decade of the current century.
Victor R. Martinez
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