Disabled

Definition

Disabled refers to a condition in which a person has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities. It can also refer to a device, system, or functionality being inoperative or turned off.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪsˈeɪbəld/
• Respelling: diss-AY-buhld

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪsˈeɪbəld/
• Respelling: diss-AY-buhld

The pronunciation of "disabled" is identical in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "disabled" comes from the prefix "dis-" meaning "apart" or "away," and "able," meaning "having the power or skill." It originated in the English language in the early 17th century to describe someone who is deprived of ability, particularly due to injury or illness.

Derivatives

• Disability (noun)
• Disable (verb)
• Enabling (verb)
• Undisabled (adjective)
• Disabledness (noun)

Synonyms

• Handicapped
• Impaired
• Incapacitated

Antonyms

• Able-bodied
• Capable
• Functional

Usage

The term "disabled" is most commonly used in medical, legal, and social contexts to refer to individuals with physical or mental conditions that affect their ability to perform everyday tasks. It is also used in technology and engineering to refer to a device or system that has been turned off or rendered non-functional. In recent years, terms like “differently-abled” or “people with disabilities” are often preferred to promote more respectful language.

Related Terms

• Impairment: A condition that affects someone's ability to perform tasks or functions.
• Handicap: A disadvantage or limitation caused by a disability.
• Accessibility: The design of products or environments that allow people with disabilities to use them.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Having a physical or mental condition that limits major life activities: Refers to individuals whose abilities are restricted due to health conditions or impairments.
  • Example: "The organization supports disabled individuals through various programs."
• Made non-functional or inoperative: Describes a system, device, or feature that has been turned off or is not working.
  • Example: "The alarm system was disabled during the maintenance process."