1. Plural of cretin; people with cretinism, a medical condition caused by severe iodine deficiency or thyroid dysfunction, resulting in stunted growth and intellectual disability.
Usage: medical/clinical term; now rare in modern usage due to improved nutrition and healthcare
2. Plural of cretin; a stupid or contemptible person.
Usage: informal; offensive/derogatory; considered insulting and inappropriate in formal contexts

Examples

• Historically, cretins were found in regions with iodine-poor soil.
• The introduction of iodized salt significantly reduced cases of cretinism in affected populations.
• He called his opponents cretins during the heated debate.
• Modern medicine has made the condition that once produced cretins largely preventable.
• The term cretin and its plural cretins are now considered outdated and offensive when used to describe people.