Cretinous

/ˈkretɪnəs/ adjective

Definition

Relating to or affected by cretinism, a condition caused by iodine deficiency that stunts growth and development.

Etymology

From cretinism (from French 'crétin' from Latin 'christianus' meaning Christian, originally meaning 'harmless fool'). The medical condition was identified in Alpine regions in the 18th century.

Kelly Says

Cretinism was common in mountains far from the sea where iodine was scarce—adding iodine to salt solved it, making one of the first true public health victories!

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