abled

American  

[ey-buhld] / ˈeɪ bəld /

adjective

1. noting or relating to a person unaffected by physical, mental, or cognitive impairment; nondisabled.

   I don’t think abled folks realize how inaccessible basic infrastructure is.

2. Rare. noting or relating to a disabled person who uses assistive technology or accommodations that make education, jobs, or other activities accessible to them.

   Teachers and institutions need to understand that if tools are provided to children with disabilities, they will become abled individuals in society.

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abled British  

/ ˈeɪbəld /

adjective

1. having a range of physical powers as specified (esp in the phrases less abled, differently abled )

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Etymology

Origin of abled

First recorded in 1945–50; back formation from disabled ( def. )

Example Sentences

Mr. Charles’s interest in alternatively abled people, or people who can do special things, that interest has long tentacles.

From Los Angeles Times • May 6, 2026

Because reality shows like this don’t explore the nuances of disability, abled audiences are unaware of how a person’s healthcare is tied into their ability to qualify for programs like SSI and SSDI.

From Salon • Apr. 1, 2025

She said she wanted to help those who were "financially excluded or differently abled".

From BBC • Aug. 11, 2024

The norm that every abled person receiving cash payments should be seeking a job can also be challenged.

From Scientific American • Jan. 6, 2023

However, there are countless examples of technologies that are developed with the less abled in mind and that have wide appeal with the masses.

From Interviews (1998-2001) by Lebert, Marie