disadvantaged

American  

[dis-uhd-van-tijd] / ˌdɪs ədˈvæn tɪdʒd /

adjective

1. lacking the normal or usual necessities and comforts of life, as proper housing, educational opportunities, job security, adequate medical care, etc..

   The government extends help to disadvantaged minorities.

   Synonyms:

   deprived, impoverished, underprivileged, poor

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noun

(used with a plural verb)

1. Usually the disadvantaged disadvantaged persons collectively.

   The senator advocates increased funding for federal programs that aid the disadvantaged.

disadvantaged British  

/ ˌdɪsədˈvɑːntɪdʒd /

adjective

1. socially or economically deprived or discriminated against

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Other Word Forms

• disadvantagedness noun
• nondisadvantaged adjective

Etymology

Origin of disadvantaged

First recorded in 1930–35; disadvantage + -ed ²

Example Sentences

The charity says there's a risk that some disadvantaged children may have less access to early years education than those in working families.

From BBC

Luke Sibieta agreed there were challenges in recruiting teachers "particularly in secondary schools, particularly in disadvantaged areas, and in particular maths and science subjects".

From BBC

The government said it was launching "two place-based challenges designed to improve outcomes for white working-class children and disadvantaged communities".

From BBC

He says he believes the system has improved access to university for disadvantaged students, and that it's a "pet peeve" to hear discussions of it being a "crippling loan", or like a mortgage.

From BBC

But Wendy also has a rail with "more affordable" dresses, starting at about £100, and says she donated about 60 outfits to schools to offer to disadvantaged students last year.

From BBC

Related Words

• deprived
• impaired
• impoverished
• poor
• underprivileged