Mentally handicapped
adjective
A person whose mental ability is significantly below an average level.
The organization has specially designed programs for mentally handicapped individuals.
Often appears as...
- a mentally handicapped individual
- mentally handicapped children
adjective
Used politically and socially to describe someone with intellectual disabilities.
Inclusive education aims to create environments where mentally handicapped students learn alongside their peers.
Often appears as...
- education for mentally handicapped
- support for mentally handicapped
adjective
Used legally to define someone who is unable to make decisions for themselves because of a mental illness or disability.
The court deemed him to be mentally handicapped and assigned a legal guardian to make decisions for him.
Often appears as...
- legally mentally handicapped
- rights of the mentally handicapped
Usage tips
Formal
adjective
A person whose mental ability is significantly below an average level.
The organization has specially designed programs for mentally handicapped individuals.
Often appears as...
- a mentally handicapped individual
- mentally handicapped children
adjective
Used politically and socially to describe someone with intellectual disabilities.
Inclusive education aims to create environments where mentally handicapped students learn alongside their peers.
Often appears as...
- education for mentally handicapped
- support for mentally handicapped
adjective
Used legally to define someone who is unable to make decisions for themselves because of a mental illness or disability.
The court deemed him to be mentally handicapped and assigned a legal guardian to make decisions for him.
Often appears as...
- legally mentally handicapped
- rights of the mentally handicapped
Usage tips
Formal
Definition 1 of 3
Pro Tip 1/2Sensitivity Required
Use the term respectfully to avoid offense, as it relates to personal abilities.
The center provides assistance to mentally handicapped individuals.
Pro Tip 2/2Avoid Outdated Terms
Terms like 'retarded' are outdated and offensive; 'mentally handicapped' is more acceptable.
Special educators help mentally handicapped students with learning.
Pro Tip 1/2Sensitivity Required
Use the term respectfully to avoid offense, as it relates to personal abilities.
The center provides assistance to mentally handicapped individuals.
Pro Tip 2/2Avoid Outdated Terms
Terms like 'retarded' are outdated and offensive; 'mentally handicapped' is more acceptable.
Special educators help mentally handicapped students with learning.
Pro Tip 1/2Sensitivity Required
Use the term respectfully to avoid offense, as it relates to personal abilities.
The center provides assistance to mentally handicapped individuals.
Pro Tip 2/2Avoid Outdated Terms
Terms like 'retarded' are outdated and offensive; 'mentally handicapped' is more acceptable.
Special educators help mentally handicapped students with learning.
Never forget "Mentally handicapped"
Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!
WordUp Chrome Extension
As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.
Get Chrome Extension