Cretinism (noun)

1. A condition caused by a deficiency of thyroid hormone, typically resulting in stunted physical and mental growth.
2. A state of being mentally and physically stunted.

Origin:

Early 19th century: from french crétinisme, from crétin "cretin", from swiss french cretin "idiot", from crétin "little christian", from latin christianus. the term was originally applied to people from the high alpine valleys, where the condition is common.

Examples:

1. The disease known as cretinism is caused by a deficiency of thyroid hormone.
2. The condition known as cretinism causes stunted physical and mental growth.
3. The child's developmental delays were diagnosed as cretinism.
4. The lack of iodine in the diet can cause cretinism in newborns.
5. Cretinism can be prevented if the mother receives enough iodine during pregnancy.