disadvantaged

1 of 2

adjective

dis·​ad·​van·​taged ˌdis-əd-ˈvan-tijd 

: 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

ˌdis-əd-ˈvan-tijd-nəs 

noun

disadvantaged

2 of 2

past tense and past participle of disadvantage entry 2

Synonyms of disadvantaged

Adjective

• deprived
• impoverished
• depressed
• underprivileged

Examples of disadvantaged in a Sentence

Adjective

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

Adjective

Needs are growing Since 1995, the share of economically disadvantaged students in Michigan public schools has gone from just under one-third to over 50%, and the share of students with disabilities has increased by over 25%. — Jason Burns, The Conversation, 17 Aug. 2026

The typical victims are old, poor, and socially isolated residents of disadvantaged areas, making heat waves invisible killers of people largely invisible in public life. — Eric Klinenberg, New Yorker, 17 Aug. 2026

Seventy-eight percent of campuses that have more than 90% of economically-disadvantaged students made gains. — Samuel O’Neal 10, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 10 Aug. 2026

Advocates viewed Baker’s proposal as weaker on broadband access provisions too, including commitments to provide low-cost internet for disadvantaged residents and communities that lack service. — Meg James, Los Angeles Times, 8 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1893, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing disadvantaged

• the disadvantaged

Rhymes for disadvantaged

• advantaged