Pronunciation: [ɔːtˈɪstɪk] (IPA) 
Autistic is spelled with the letter combination "au" which creates a unique sound. The sound is represented in IPA phonetic transcription as [ɔː], which is a long open-mid back vowel sound. The following "tis" is pronounced as [tɪk], with a short "i" sound and a hard "k" at the end. The spelling of the word accurately reflects the pronunciation with the distinct "au" sound that sets it apart from other words with similar spelling.
The term "autistic" is an adjective used to describe individuals who have autism, a developmental disorder characterized by challenges in communication, social interaction, and repetitive behavior patterns. Autism is part of a broader term known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), which encompasses a range of conditions identified by similar traits.
Individuals with autism often exhibit difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, such as delayed language development, limited use of gestures, and trouble understanding social cues or sarcasm. Social interaction difficulties can include challenges in establishing and maintaining relationships, difficulty empathizing, and a preference for solitary activities. Repetitive behaviors can manifest in various forms, such as repetitive movements (e.g., hand flapping, rocking), adherence to strict routines, and intense interests in specific subjects.
The severity of autistic traits can greatly vary among individuals, leading to a diverse spectrum where some may require significant support, while others may function relatively independently. It is important to remember that autism is not a disease or a result of poor parenting; rather, it is a neurodevelopmental condition present from early childhood that impacts various aspects of an individual's life.
Understanding and acceptance of individuals with autism requires the recognition and respect of their unique strengths, challenges, and perspectives. Tailored support, therapy, and educational interventions can improve the quality of life and empower individuals with autism to reach their full potential.
Self-centered.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "autistic" derives from the Greek word "autos", meaning "self". It was first used in the early 20th century by Swiss psychiatrist Eugen Bleuler to describe withdrawal and self-centeredness as symptoms of schizophrenia. Later, in the 1940s, Austrian pediatrician Hans Asperger used the term "autistic psychopathy" to describe a group of children with social and communication difficulties but without intellectual disabilities. Over time, the term "autism" came to represent a distinct developmental disorder characterized by impaired social interaction and communication, as well as restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior and interests.
