low-functioning

Functioning or operating at a low level.

Adjective

  1. Functioning or operating at a low level.
  2. Of a person with a developmental or intellectual disability or mental illness, unable to function in society; greatly affected by a disability or illness.
  3. Of a person with autism, exhibiting relatively low cognitive function.

Origin

From low + functioning.

Forms

more low-functioning lower-functioning most low-functioning lowest-functioning