wheelchair

noun

wheel·​chair ˈ(h)wēl-ˌcher How to pronounce wheelchair (audio)
: a chair mounted on wheels especially for the use of disabled persons

Examples of wheelchair in a Sentence

He was in a wheelchair for several months after the accident.
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.
Irsay had recently been in a wheelchair following two separate surgeries. CBS News, 21 May 2025 Amelia said students who are in wheelchairs at her school can’t fully participate at the playground like other students. Michelle Mullins, Chicago Tribune, 19 May 2025 Eve and Marshall took him on the 7,000-mile journey to India themselves, pushing him in a rented collapsible wheelchair. Sarah Zhang, The Atlantic, 16 May 2025 The main lodge building is partially wheelchair accessible except for the lower dining room and upstairs lounges. Kendall Hill, Travel + Leisure, 15 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for wheelchair

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1684, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of wheelchair was circa 1684

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Wheelchair.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/wheelchair. Accessed 28 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

wheelchair

noun
wheel·​chair -ˌche(ə)r How to pronounce wheelchair (audio)
-ˌcha(ə)r
: a chair with wheels used especially by sick, injured, or disabled people to get about

Medical Definition

wheelchair

noun
: a chair mounted on wheels especially for the use of disabled individuals

More from Merriam-Webster on wheelchair

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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