Disabled: Definition, Examples, and Usage

Meaning 1：having a physical or mental impairment (disabled)

disabled 🔊

/dɪsˈeɪbld/

adj.

It means a person's body or mind doesn't work in the usual way, which might make some things harder to do.

Disabled person using wheelchair ramp at public building entrance

having a physical or mental impairment 🔊

➕

/ˈhævɪŋ ə ˈfɪzɪkəl ɔːr ˈmentl ɪmˈpɛərmənt/

adj.

Describes a person whose body or mind functions differently from the typical range, often requiring accommodations for equal access.

📁 Category：Physical & Mental Health 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

dis- (not) + able (capable) + -ed (adjective suffix) => not capable.

💡 Mnemonic

Think: 'Dis' + 'abled' = 'not able'; imagine a key that cannot turn a lock.

📖 Example

The public library has installed ramps and elevators to ensure disabled readers can access all floors easily. 🔊 The public library has installed ramps and elevators to ensure disabled readers can access all floors easily.

🔗 Collocations

disabled access – Facilities designed for people with disabilities.

disabled person – An individual with a physical or mental impairment.

disabled parking – Parking spaces reserved for people with disabilities.

🔄 Synonyms

handicapped (adj.) – Having a condition that makes doing certain activities difficult.

impaired (adj.) – Damaged or weakened in function.

incapacitated (adj.) – Unable to act or function normally.

🚫 Antonyms

able-bodied (adj.) – Having a healthy body without physical disabilities.

unimpaired (adj.) – Not damaged or weakened.

🌱 Derivatives

disable (v.) – To make someone or something unable to function.

disability (n.) – A physical or mental condition that limits activities.

disablement (n.) – The state of being disabled.

📖 Cultural Story

From Latin 'dis-' + 'habilis' (able), via Old French 'desable'. In modern English, it is central to disability rights and accessibility movements.