handicap

han-di-cap · noun, verb

imported

Definitions

noun, verb

  1. 1.

    A condition or circumstance that makes progress or achievement difficult; a disadvantage.

  2. 2.

    To place at a disadvantage; to hinder or impede.

  3. 3.

    (Sports) A system in various sports that assigns additional strokes or points to weaker players to equalize competition.

  4. 4.

    (Dated) A physical or mental disability. Note: This usage is now considered outdated and potentially offensive; "disability" is preferred.

Forms

plural: handicaps

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    handicap race — A race in which competitors are given advantages or disadvantages to equalize chances
  • •
    mental handicap — (Dated) An intellectual disability

Related words

Antonyms: advantage, asset, benefit
See also: disability, disadvantage, impairment
Synonyms: disadvantage, hindrance, impediment, obstacle

Etymology

From the 17th-century English phrase hand in cap, referring to a lottery game where forfeits were held in a cap. The term evolved to denote an equalizing advantage in competitions, then extended to mean any disadvantage.