Cretinism

Pronunciation: /ˈkriːtɪnɪzəm/

Definitions of cretinism

noun a condition of congenital hypothyroidism in children that results in physical and mental retardation

Example Sentences

A1 Cretinism is a rare condition that affects thyroid function.

A2 The doctor diagnosed the child with cretinism due to a lack of iodine.

B1 Cretinism can lead to developmental delays and intellectual disabilities.

B2 Early detection and treatment of cretinism can prevent serious complications.

C1 Historically, cretinism was prevalent in regions with iodine deficiency.

C2 Research has shown a strong correlation between cretinism and inadequate thyroid hormone production.

Examples of cretinism in a Sentence

formal Cretinism is a congenital form of hypothyroidism that results in physical and mental retardation.

informal I can't believe he still believes in those conspiracy theories, what a cretinism.

slang She's acting like a total cretinism, always causing drama.

figurative The outdated policies of the company are a form of organizational cretinism.

Grammatical Forms of cretinism

• past tense: cretinized
• plural: cretinisms
• comparative: more cretinistic
• superlative: most cretinistic
• present tense: is cretinism
• future tense: will be cretinism
• perfect tense: has been cretinism
• continuous tense: is being cretinism
• singular: cretinism
• positive degree: cretinism
• infinitive: to be cretinism
• gerund: cretinizing
• participle: cretinized

Origin and Evolution of cretinism

First Known Use: 1779 year

Language of Origin: French

Story behind the word: The word 'cretinism' originated from the French word 'crétin', which is derived from the Swiss French dialect word 'crestin' meaning 'Christian' or 'human being'. It was used to describe individuals with severe intellectual disabilities and physical deformities.

Evolution of the word: Over time, the term 'cretinism' has evolved to refer specifically to a medical condition caused by a deficiency of thyroid hormone during development, leading to stunted growth and intellectual impairment. The use of the word has shifted from a derogatory term to a medical diagnosis.