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Definition of wheelchair
wheelchair
/ˈwiːlˌtʃɛr/
Plural:wheelchairs
wheelchair Lexical Profile
CEFR
A2
Grade
2
Tier
1
Usage
Top 5k
wheelchair Game Scores & Validity
Scrabble US
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WWF
Wordle Guess
• noun
1
A chair fitted with wheels, used as a primary means of mobility and transport by a person who is unable to walk due to illness, injury, or disability.
Example
"The newly renovated library features smooth ramps and wide aisles to ensure full accessibility for anyone using a wheelchair."
Word Nuance & Usage
In modern, respectful usage, the phrase 'wheelchair user' is strongly preferred over 'wheelchair-bound' or 'confined to a wheelchair,' which are increasingly considered outdated and ableist.
Word Origin & Etymology
A compound of 'wheel' and 'chair', first recorded in English in the late 17th century to describe chairs specifically adapted with wheels for those unable to walk.
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Wheelchair. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 13, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/wheelchair