Definition

1. Noun:
   • The condition of having less than normal intellectual capacity or development. This is the primary meaning, referring specifically to a significant impairment in cognitive functioning and adaptive behavior.
   • The state or condition of being below the normal standard, average, or expected level. This is a more general meaning, which can apply to qualities other than intelligence, though it is less common.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The educational program was designed for children with intellectual subnormality.
  • Early diagnosis and intervention can improve outcomes for individuals with subnormality.
  • (General use) The subnormality of the test results across the group indicated a potential problem with the measurement technique.

Advanced Usage

• Historical/Clinical Context: The term "subnormality" was once a standard clinical and legal term (e.g., "mental subnormality") but is now largely considered outdated and potentially offensive in social and medical contexts. Modern terminology prefers more specific and person-first language, such as "intellectual disability" or "developmental disability."
  • The old law used the term "mental subnormality," which has since been replaced by "intellectual disability."

Variants and Related Words

• Subnormal (adjective): Below what is normal or average.
  • The device recorded subnormal temperatures during the experiment.
• Intellectual Disability (noun phrase): The contemporary preferred term for the condition formerly described as intellectual subnormality.

Synonyms

• Intellectual disability
• Developmental disability
• Mental retardation (outdated/offensive)
• Cognitive impairment

Antonyms

• Normality
• Average ability
• Intellectual giftedness

Noun

1. lack of normal development of intellectual capacities
2. the state of being less than normal (especially with respect to intelligence)