n. & v.
--n.
1. a a disadvantage imposed on a superior competitor in order to make the chances more equal. b a race or contest in which this is imposed.
2 the number of strokes by which a golfer normally exceeds par for the course.
3 a thing that makes progress or success difficult.
4 a physical or mental disability.
--v.tr. (handicapped, handicapping)
1. impose a handicap on.
2 place (a person) at a disadvantage.
Derivatives:
handicapper n.
Etymology: prob. from the phrase hand i' ( in) cap describing a kind of sporting lottery