Dictionary

Something that prevents, hampers, or hinders.

Example: Age is often a handicap.

An allowance of a certain amount of time or distance in starting, granted in a race (or other contest of skill) to the competitor possessing disadvantages; or an additional weight or other hindrance imposed upon the one possessing advantages, in order to equalize, as much as possible, the chances of success.

Example: A handicap in chess often involves removal of the queen's rook.

(sometimes considered offensive) The disadvantage itself, in particular physical or mental disadvantages of people.

A race or similar contest in which there is an allowance of time, distance, weight, or other advantage, to equalize the chances of the competitors.

To encumber with a handicap in any contest.

(by extension) To place at disadvantage.

Example: The candidate was handicapped by her lack of experience.

To estimate betting odds.

Example: Grandpa Andy would buy the racing form the day ahead of time so he could handicap the race before he even arrived at the track.