Disabled describes someone whose body or mind works differently from what's typical, in a way that makes certain everyday activities more difficult. A person might be disabled because they can't walk, see, or hear, or because their brain processes information differently, or for many other reasons.

Some people are born with disabilities, while others become disabled through illness or injury. A student who uses a wheelchair is disabled, as is someone who is blind and reads using Braille, or someone whose brain works differently in a way that affects learning or communication. The word covers a wide range of conditions, and disabled people are as varied as anyone else: some disabilities are visible, others aren't. Some affect physical abilities, others affect thinking, learning, or emotional regulation.

Being disabled doesn't mean being broken or less valuable. Throughout history, disabled people have been inventors, athletes, artists, scientists, and leaders. It does mean that society needs to make accommodations so everyone can participate: ramps for wheelchairs, audiobooks for people who can't see printed text, or extra time on tests for students whose brains need it.

Many disabled people prefer this term over outdated phrases like “handicapped.” They've worked hard to change laws and attitudes so that having a disability is seen as one part of who someone is, not their entire identity or a tragedy. You might hear someone say “person with a disability” or “disabled person,” both of which can show respect, depending on what the person prefers.