handicapped

[han-dee-kapt] / ˈhæn diˌkæpt /

ADJECTIVE

thwarted

Synonyms

STRONG

balked blocked burdened checked curbed deterred encumbered foiled hampered impeded obstructed restrained restricted stymied

Antonyms

WEAK

aided helped supported

ADJECTIVE

(offensive) having a disability

Synonyms

STRONGEST

disabled

STRONG

impaired limited

WEAK

mentally disabled physically disabled

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

It has long been handicapped by a rule requiring full consensus among members, meaning decisions are few and far between.

From Barron's • Mar. 20, 2026

Those failures handicapped heroic efforts from fire crews on day one.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 19, 2025

Some clearly display handicapped plaques as they go to the store.

From Salon • Apr. 1, 2025

Efoghe said the Nigerian embassy in Tripoli was "handicapped" and could not intervene because of the political situation.

From BBC • Oct. 14, 2024

I am very different from that self who drove to Manderley for the first time, hopeful and eager, handicapped by a rather desperate gaucherie and filled with an intense desire to please.

From "Rebecca" by Daphne du Maurier