Definition

A medical condition that occurs when a person has a deficiency of thyroid hormone from birth, leading to physical growth issues and intellectual disabilities.

Example

Cretinism can lead to serious developmental problems if not treated early.

Conversation

I was reading about health conditions and came across something called cretinism.

Oh really? What did you find out about it?

It's quite serious, affecting growth and mental development in children.

That sounds really tough; I had no idea it could have such a big impact.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cretinism → The word is derived from "cretin" (from French *crétin*, meaning a person with a mental disability) and the suffix "-ism" (meaning a condition or state). Cretinism refers to a condition characterized by physical and mental growth deficiencies, originally associated with people from the Alps, where the term was first used.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'cretin' which refers to a person with a mental disability, and remember that 'cretinism' describes the condition associated with such deficiencies.

Visually Confused Words