impede

verb im·pede \im-ˈpēd\

: to slow the movement, progress, or action of (someone or something)

im·ped·edim·ped·ing

Full Definition of IMPEDE

transitive verb

: to interfere with or slow the progress of

— im·ped·er noun

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Origin of IMPEDE

Latin impedire, from in- + ped-, pes foot — more at foot

First Known Use: circa 1595

Related to IMPEDE

Synonyms: clog, cramp, embarrass, encumber, fetter, handcuff, handicap, hinder, hobble, hog-tie, hold back, hold up, hamper, inhibit, interfere (with), manacle, obstruct, shackle, short-circuit, stymie, tie up, trammel

Antonyms: aid, assist, facilitate, help

Synonym Discussion of IMPEDE

hinder, impede, obstruct, block mean to interfere with the activity or progress of. hinder stresses causing harmful or annoying delay or interference with progress <rain hindered the climb>. impede implies making forward progress difficult by clogging, hampering, or fettering <tight clothing that impedes movement>. obstruct implies interfering with something in motion or in progress by the sometimes intentional placing of obstacles in the way <the view was obstructed by billboards>. block implies complete obstruction to passage or progress <a landslide blocked the road>.

IMPEDE Defined for Kids