adjective
disabled
Having a condition that limits some activities or participation; also, made unable to function.
The bus has a ramp that gives disabled passengers easier access.
Etymology
Dis- reverses able, and -ed describes the resulting condition. Disabled applies to impaired functioning and to conditions that limit a person’s activities or participation.
More examples
- A disabled employee uses voice recognition software to write reports.
- The disabled truck sits on the shoulder awaiting a tow.
- A disabled alarm cannot warn anyone about a fire.
Forms
disability noun — A condition that limits activities or participation.
disable verb — To make someone or something unable to function.
Similar words
- impaired
- Describes reduced ability or function, not necessarily complete inability.
- inoperative
- Describes equipment that does not work, rather than people.