Handicapped: meaning, definitions and examples

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handicapped

[ˈhændɪˌkæpt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

parking spaces

Having a physical or mental disability that significantly limits one's ability to function in a particular environment.

Synonyms

challenged, disabled, impaired.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
handicapped	Considered outdated and sometimes offensive. It was historically used to describe someone with physical or mental disabilities. He used to park in the handicapped spot. The restaurant has a special entrance for handicapped customers.
disabled	Generally accepted and widely used in medical, legal, and social contexts to describe someone with physical or mental conditions that limit certain activities. He is disabled and uses a wheelchair. They work to protect the rights of disabled individuals.
impaired	Often used to describe specific limitations, such as vision or hearing. It is commonly used in medical contexts. He has hearing-impaired and needs a hearing aid. The driver was arrested for driving while impaired.
challenged	Used as a more sensitive or politically correct term, often used in contexts where it replaces 'disabled' to add a positive outlook. It can sometimes sound euphemistic. She is physically challenged but lives independently. They offer services for intellectually challenged students.

Examples of usage

Handicapped parking spaces are reserved for individuals with disabilities.
She felt frustrated when people parked in the handicapped spot without a permit.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

individuals

A person who has a physical or mental disability that limits their ability to function.

Synonyms

disabled person, individual with disabilities.

Examples of usage

The organization provides support services for handicapped individuals.
He works tirelessly to advocate for the rights of the handicapped in our community.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term comes from a game called 'hand in cap' where players would place items into a cap to bet; it later referred to disadvantages or impairments.
Originally used in a sports context, the term evolved to describe challenges that affect individuals in everyday life.

Cultural Perspectives

In many cultures, there has been a historical stigma associated with disabilities, though awareness and advocacy have transformed perceptions.
Various movements have emerged globally to promote rights and accessibility for individuals identified as having limitations.

Legislation

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), passed in 1990, was a landmark legislation aimed at eliminating barriers for individuals with disabilities in the United States.
Similar laws exist globally, focusing on inclusion in schools, workplaces, and public spaces, changing how society accommodates different abilities.

Psychology

Individuals seen as handicapped may face challenges such as low self-esteem or depression, emphasizing the importance of support and inclusion.
Studies indicate that supportive environments boost the confidence and performance of individuals who face physical or cognitive challenges.

Representation in Media

In recent years, there has been a push for better representation of individuals with disabilities in films, TV shows, and literature.
Characters portrayed with disabilities can shift societal attitudes and foster understanding by showing the rich lives that people lead despite challenges.

Translations

Translations of the word "handicapped" in other languages:

🇵🇹 deficiente

🇮🇳 विकलांग

🇩🇪 behindert

🇮🇩 cacat

🇺🇦 інвалід

🇵🇱 niepełnosprawny

🇯🇵 障害者

🇫🇷 handicapé

🇪🇸 discapacitado

🇹🇷 engelli

🇰🇷 장애인

🇸🇦 معاق

🇨🇿 postižený

🇸🇰 postihnutý

🇨🇳 残疾人

🇸🇮 invalid

🇮🇸 fatlaður

🇰🇿 мүгедек

🇬🇪 შეზღუდული შესაძლებლობების მქონე

🇦🇿 əlil

🇲🇽 discapacitado

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,139 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

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6136 inequality
6137 merger
6138 receptors
6139 handicapped
6140 earning
6141 pursuing
6142 nomination
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