The origin of the term 'handicapped'?

The origin of the term 'handicapped'?

• A. It comes from an Old English bartering game where the loser was left with his 'hand in his cap,' later associated with people at a disadvantage.
• B. It originated from a medical term.
• C. It refers to physical injuries only.
• D. It was derived from a Latin phrase meaning 'helpful'.

Answer: (A)

The idea behind this term comes from an old English bartering game in which the loser would end up with his hand in a cap, signaling a disadvantage. That image of being at a disadvantage later extended to describe people who are hindered or less able in some way, including those with disabilities. Over time, the word came to refer more broadly to people who face barriers or limitations. That’s why this option fits best: it connects the word to a historical image of disadvantage, rather than to a medical term, to physical injuries only, or to a Latin phrase meaning “helpful.”

The idea behind this term comes from an old English bartering game in which the loser would end up with his hand in a cap, signaling a disadvantage. That image of being at a disadvantage later extended to describe people who are hindered or less able in some way, including those with disabilities. Over time, the word came to refer more broadly to people who face barriers or limitations.

That’s why this option fits best: it connects the word to a historical image of disadvantage, rather than to a medical term, to physical injuries only, or to a Latin phrase meaning “helpful.”