Handicap ( noun , verb )

(As a noun)

Handicap ( noun )

1. A condition that interferes with or limits a person's ability to function physically or mentally.
2. A disadvantage that makes success more difficult.
3. A disadvantage imposed on a competitor to equalize chances of winning.
4. The extra strokes given to a less skilled golfer.
5. An event in which people with disabilities compete with each other.

Origin:

Hand in cap, from the practice of putting one"s hand in one"s cap to indicate willingness to wager on one"s own ability.

Examples:

1. The accident left him with a permanent handicap.
2. The company's financial difficulties were a handicap to its growth.
3. The handicap of the race was set at 30 seconds.
4. The golfer had a six stroke handicap.
5. The handicap event was a great success.

(As a verb)

Handicap ( verb )

1. A condition that interferes with or limits a person's ability to function physically or mentally.
2. A disadvantage that makes success more difficult.
3. A disadvantage imposed on a competitor to equalize chances of winning.
4. The extra strokes given to a less skilled golfer.
5. An event in which people with disabilities compete with each other.

Origin:

Hand in cap, from the practice of putting one"s hand in one"s cap to indicate willingness to wager on one"s own ability.

Examples:

1. The accident left him with a permanent handicap.
2. The company's financial difficulties were a handicap to its growth.
3. The handicap of the race was set at 30 seconds.
4. The golfer had a six stroke handicap.
5. The handicap event was a great success.