Definition Definition

Handicap - Meaning and Examples

Meaning of 'Handicap' (Webster Dictionary)

1 . Handicap [ n.]
- An allowance of a certain amount of time or distance in starting, granted in a race to the competitor possessing inferior advantages; or an additional weight or other hindrance imposed upon the one possessing superior advantages, in order to equalize, as much as possible, the chances of success; as, the handicap was five seconds, or ten pounds, and the like.
- A race, for horses or men, or any contest of agility, strength, or skill, in which there is an allowance of time, distance, weight, or other advantage, to equalize the chances of the competitors.
- An old game at cards.
2 . Handicap [ v. t.]
- To encumber with a handicap in any contest; hence, in general, to place at disadvantage; as, the candidate was heavily handicapped.

Meaning of 'Handicap' (Princeton's WordNet)

1 . handicap [ n]
Meaning (1):
- the condition of being unable to perform as a consequence of physical or mental unfitness
Example in sentence:
  • hearing impairment;
  • reading disability
2 . handicap [ v]
Meaning (2):
- injure permanently
Example in sentence:
  • He was disabled in a car accident
Meaning (3):
- put at a disadvantage
Example in sentence:
  • The brace I have to wear is hindering my movements