cripple
Cripple (noun) means an outdated and now offensive term for a person with a serious physical disability. Example: “Older texts sometimes used the word "cripple," a term now considered offensive.”
How to use cripple
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAs a verb, to badly damage or disable something; as a noun, an outdated and offensive word for a disabled person.
The noun use for a person is now considered offensive and avoided in modern writing — "person with a disability" is the standard respectful alternative. The verb form ("to cripple an economy") is still common and not offensive.
Word forms
crippled past tense, cripples plural, cripples singular
Fill the gap
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Older texts sometimes used the word "_____," a term now considered offensive.
Etymology
From Old English crypel, related to "creep," originally describing someone who had to crawl rather than walk.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for cripple
See all rhymes for cripple →Frequently asked questions
What does “cripple” mean?
The word “cripple” means an outdated and now offensive term for a person with a serious physical disability. In plain terms, as a verb, to badly damage or disable something; as a noun, an outdated and offensive word for a disabled person.
How do you pronounce “cripple”?
“Cripple” is pronounced KRIHPL (/ˈkɹɪp(ə)l/ in IPA).
How do you use “cripple” in a sentence?
Here is “cripple” used in a sentence: “Older texts sometimes used the word "cripple," a term now considered offensive.”
What part of speech is “cripple”?
Depending on how it is used, “cripple” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “cripple” come from?
The word “cripple” comes from Old English. From Old English crypel, related to "creep," originally describing someone who had to crawl rather than walk.
Is “cripple” a common word?
“Cripple” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “cripple” have?
“Cripple” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: an outdated and now offensive term for a person with a serious physical disability.