The term is a modern English compound adjective formed in the 20th century, reflecting societal awareness of mobility conditions. The first element, 'wheelchair,' literally describes the mobility aid itself, a chair on wheels. The second element, 'bound,' draws from its Old English root meaning "to tie or make fast," evolving to signify being constrained or limited to a specific state. Thus, the word's literal construction, "tied to a wheelchair," logically conveys the modern abstract meaning of being physically reliant on such a device for movement.

Structure: wheelchair + bound - wheelchair: A compound noun from 'wheel' (Old English hwēol, a circular frame that rotates) + 'chair' (Old French chaiere, Latin cathedra, a seat). Functions as the object or instrument. - bound: An adjective from Old English bindan (to tie). In this compound, it functions as a suffix meaning "confined to" or "restricted by."