cretinism Definition

cretin
noun

1. Someone suffering from cretinism.
2. loosely, offensive
An idiot.

Derivative: cretinism
noun

A chronic condition caused by a congenital deficiency of thyroid hormone resulting in dwarfism and mental retardation.

Derivative: cretinous
adj

Etymology: 18c: from Swiss dialect crestin, from Latin christianus Christian, human creature, emphasizing their humanity in spite of their physical and mental deformity.