Disability
/ˌdɪsəˈbɪləti/
Definitions
2 meaningsA physical or mental condition that restricts a person's movements, senses, or activities.
/ˌdɪsəˈbɪləti/
A physical or mental condition that limits a person's movements, senses, or activities.
She has a learning disability that affects her reading comprehension.
💡 Simply: Imagine you have a friend who can't walk easily, or maybe can't see or hear very well. That's a disability – it's something that makes it harder for them to do some things. Like, if someone has a disability, it might make it tricky for them to play sports or get around.
👶 For kids: When your body or your brain can't do something that most people can do easily. Like, if someone can't walk well, they might have a disability that makes walking hard.
More Examples
The company has a policy of reasonable accommodation for employees with disabilities.
The new building is designed with accessibility features to accommodate people with mobility disabilities.
How It's Used
"The hospital provides specialized care for people with various disabilities."
"The law prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities."
"The community strives to create an inclusive environment for people with disabilities."
A disadvantage or deficiency that makes success more difficult.
/ˌdɪsəˈbɪləti/
A disadvantage or deficiency.
The lack of funding was a significant disability to the project's completion.
💡 Simply: Sometimes, 'disability' can also mean something that makes it harder for you to achieve a goal, not just a physical or mental condition. For example, if you don’t have enough money, that’s a 'disability' because it makes it tough to buy things.
👶 For kids: Something that makes it harder to do something. Like, if you don't have a bike, that might be a disability if you want to race your friends.
More Examples
A disability in communication skills can hinder professional advancement.
Poor infrastructure posed a disability to economic development in the region.
How It's Used
"Lack of funding is a major disability to this project."
"The company faced a disability in its ability to recruit qualified staff."
Idioms & expressions
disability insurance
Insurance that provides income if a person is unable to work due to illness or injury.
"She relies on disability insurance to cover her expenses during her recovery."
people with disabilities
A respectful way of referring to individuals who have disabilities.
"The organization advocates for the rights of people with disabilities."
From Middle English *disabilite*, from Old French *desabilitie*, from *desable* (“unable”), from *des-* (“un-”) + *able* (“able”).
The term has evolved over time, with a shift towards person-first language and emphasizing individual capabilities rather than limitations.
Memory tip
Think of 'dis-' (not) and 'ability'. A disability is a lack of ability in some way.
Word Origin
"Lack of ability"