handicap
US /ˈhæn.dɪ.kæp/
UK /ˈhæn.dɪ.kæp/
1.
a circumstance that makes progress or success difficult
:
•
His lack of experience was a significant handicap in the job interview.
•
The heavy rain proved to be a major handicap for the outdoor event.
2.
a disadvantage imposed on a superior competitor in order to make the chances more equal
:
•
The golf pro played with a handicap to make the game fair for his amateur opponent.
•
They gave the stronger team a handicap of two goals.
1.
to put (someone) at a disadvantage
:
•
His poor eyesight handicapped him in the shooting competition.
•
The new regulations will handicap small businesses.