An allowance of a certain amount of time or distance in
starting, granted in a race to the competitor possessing inferior
advantages; or an additional weight or other hindrance imposed upon the
one possessing superior advantages, in order to equalize, as much as
possible, the chances of success; as, the handicap was five seconds, or
ten pounds, and the like.

A race, for horses or men, or any contest of agility,
strength, or skill, in which there is an allowance of time, distance,
weight, or other advantage, to equalize the chances of the competitors.

An old game at cards.

To encumber with a handicap in any contest; hence, in
general, to place at disadvantage; as, the candidate was heavily
handicapped.