disadvantaged

adjective

dis·​ad·​van·​taged ˌdis-əd-ˈvan-tijd How to pronounce disadvantaged (audio)
Synonyms of disadvantagednext
: lacking in the basic resources or conditions (such as standard housing, medical and educational facilities, and civil rights) believed to be necessary for an equal position in society
disadvantagedness noun

Examples of disadvantaged in a Sentence

The program provides aid for economically disadvantaged groups. disadvantaged families struggling to get by will be benefited by changes in the tax code
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
These communities and organizations are seeking ongoing programs and grants to advocate for disadvantaged communities to have clean air, affordable energy and economic opportunity. Dallas Morning News, 3 Feb. 2026 However, secondhand shopping didn't always have such positive connotations, as it was sometimes associated with thrift store-buying that can be a lifeline for the economically disadvantaged. Mari Sato The Dallas Morning News, Arkansas Online, 1 Feb. 2026 Core safeguards against disproportionate impacts on disadvantaged communities remain in place, and historic preservation and infrastructure standards continue to apply. Carlina Rivera, New York Daily News, 31 Jan. 2026 Apart from trying to grow with its audience and opening up to disadvantaged filmmakers, IFFR continues to rely on surprising encounters. Marta Balaga, Variety, 29 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for disadvantaged

Word History

First Known Use

1893, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of disadvantaged was in 1893

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Cite this Entry

“Disadvantaged.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/disadvantaged. Accessed 18 Feb. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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