Allistic

Part of speech: adjective

Pronunciation: /æˈlɪstɪk/

Definitions

1. Referring to those not affected by autism, this term highlights the differences between neurotypical people and autistic individuals
2. This descriptor indicates individuals without autism, emphasizing the distinction from those on the spectrum
3. Describing individuals who are not on the autism spectrum, this term emphasizes the contrast between neurotypical and autistic experiences

Etymology: "Allistic" is a recent coinage built on a pair of Greek-derived pieces. The prefix "all(o)-" comes from Greek "allos," meaning "other" or "different," and the suffix "-istic" is the familiar adjective-forming ending. The word was made by analogy with "autistic," so it follows the same pattern, with "all(o)-" standing in for "auto-," which means "self." Where "autistic" describes a condition of being turned inward, "allistic" names the opposite condition: a person whose neurotype is not autistic. The word's shape tells its story. Its partner, "autistic," was itself built from the Greek "autos," meaning "self," and "allistic" simply swaps in the "other" prefix. Because the term is defined in relation to autism rather than as a standalone condition, it exists mainly to name a contrast that people needed when discussing neurodiversity. The related noun "allism" was formed in the same way.

Synonyms: non-self, external, outside, other-directed, object-oriented