wheelchair

American  

[weel-chair, hweel-] / ˈwilˌtʃɛər, ˈʰwil- /

noun

1. a chair mounted on wheels for use by persons who cannot walk.

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wheelchair British  

/ ˈwiːlˌtʃɛə /

noun

1. med a special chair mounted on large wheels, for use by invalids or others for whom walking is impossible or temporarily inadvisable

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Etymology

Origin of wheelchair

First recorded in 1690–1700; wheel + chair

Example Sentences

"If there's a strike, the people around me could run away and leave me behind; I can't get up and move if no one helps me," said 62-year-old Fatima Nazli, who uses a wheelchair.

From Barron's • Mar. 31, 2026

The first Paralympics in L.A. will open on Aug. 15, 2028, but competition will start on Aug. 13 with wheelchair rugby.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 30, 2026

If you need a wheelchair, let the airline know during booking or at the ticket counter.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 28, 2026

Julie Blagbrough became a wheelchair user seven years ago and, overnight, she said she had to rethink her wardrobe.

From BBC • Mar. 24, 2026

Grandma Whitney said it would be simpler for all of them if Abby used a wheelchair.

From "Earthquake Terror" by Peg Kehret