Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
mongoloid
Adjective and Noun
/ˈmɒŋɡəˌlɔɪd/
Definition
An outdated term that was once used to describe a person with Down syndrome or to refer to certain physical characteristics associated with East Asian people.
Examples
- Many institutions have moved away from using the term ‘mongoloid’ in favor of respectful language.
- In the past, some anthropologists used ‘mongoloid’ to categorize people from East Asia based on certain characteristics.
- It is important to use language that acknowledges the dignity of individuals rather than outdated, derogatory terms.
Meaning
Historically used to classify individuals with Down syndrome based on perceived physical traits. It is now considered offensive and outdated.
Synonyms
- Down syndrome (in context)
- Asian (in context)
- None (as the term is highly discouraged)
