If you say that someone is challenged in a particular way, you mean that they have a disability in that area. Challenged is often combined with inappropriate words for humorous effect.
...terms like 'vertically-challenged'–meaning short.
She ran off with an intellectually-challenged ski instructor.
challenged in British English
(ˈtʃælɪndʒd)
adjective
(in combination)
disabled or disadvantaged in some way
physically challenged performers
challenged in American English
(ˈtʃælɪndʒd)
adjective
(usually prec. by an adverb, used as a euphemism)
having a disability or deficiency as specified
physically challenged
ethically challenged
Word origin
[1980–85, Amer.]
Examples of 'challenged' in a sentence
challenged
There should be no question of his immunity being challenged.
Harcourt, Palma DOUBLE DECEIT (2002)
When challenged, he appears offended and clearly has difficulty masking his indignation.
Val McDermid THE LAST TEMPTATION (2002)
The two armed guards, seated outside a door at the end of the corridor, immediately challenged them.
MacNeill, Alastair CODE BREAKER (2002)
But the human being likes to be challenged, seeks freedom in adversity.
Ursula K. Le Guin THE DISPOSSESSED (2002)
In other languages
challenged
British English: challenged ADJECTIVE
If you say that someone is challenged in a particular way, you mean that they have a disability in that area.
...terms like 'vertically-challenged'–meaning short.