Definition of: handicap

(han′dē·kap′) noun
1. A condition imposed to equalize the chances of competitors in a race or athletic contest, as the carrying of extra weight, or the requirement of a greater distance or a later start than is assigned to an inferior competitor; also, the weight, etc., so required.
2. A race or contest in which such conditions are imposed.
3. Any disadvantage or hindrance making success in an undertaking more difficult.
—v.t. ·capped, ·cap·ping
1. To impose a handicap on, as a contestant in a race.
2. To be a handicap to: His leg handicaps his movements. [<hand in cap, a lottery game in which winners were penalized]
—hand′i·cap′per noun