The meaning of HANDICAPPED is having a physical or mental disability; also : of or reserved for disabled persons. How to use handicapped in a sentence.
having an illness, injury, or condition that makes it difficult to do some things that other people do. This word is now considered offensive by many people, who prefer to say some
1. physically or mentally disabled. 2. (of a contestant) marked by, being under, or having a handicap. n. 3. the handicapped, handicapped persons collectively.
/ˌhændiˈkæpt/ /ˈhændikæpt/ IPA guide Definitions of handicapped adjective incapable of functioning as a consequence of injury or illness synonyms: disabled
Aug 13, 2025 · Explore "handicapped" in The Academic Glossary. This entry covers its core meaning, precise definition, fascinating etymology, and practical examples of use. Master
Someone who is handicapped has a physical or mental disability that prevents them from living a totally normal life. Many people who have a disability find this word offensive.
There are seven meanings listed in OED's entry for the word handicapped, two of which are considered offensive. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation eviden
to assign odds for or against (any particular contestant) to win a contest or series of contests: He handicapped the Yankees at 2-to-1 to take the series from the Cardinals.
Definition of handicapped adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.