Dictionary
impediment
noun im·ped·i·ment \im-ˈpe-də-mənt\
: something that makes it difficult to do or complete something : something that interferes with movement or progress
: a condition that makes it difficult to speak normally
Full Definition of IMPEDIMENT
1
: something that impedes; especially : an impairment (as a stutter or a lisp) that interferes with the proper articulation of speech
2
: a bar or hindrance (as lack of sufficient age) to a lawful marriage
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First Known Use of IMPEDIMENT
14th century
Related to IMPEDIMENT
- Synonyms
- balk, bar, block, chain, clog, cramp, crimp, deterrent, drag, embarrassment, fetter, handicap, hindrance, holdback, hurdle, encumbrance, inhibition, interference, let, manacle, obstacle, obstruction, shackles, stop, stumbling block, trammel
IMPEDIMENT Defined for Kids
impediment
noun im·ped·i·ment \im-ˈpe-də-mənt\
Definition of IMPEDIMENT for Kids
1
: something that interferes with movement or progress
2
: a condition that makes it difficult to speak normally
Word Root of IMPEDIMENT
The Latin word pes, meaning “foot,” and its form pedis give us the root ped. A pedestrian is a person who travels on foot. Before trains, planes, and cars, an expedition, or journey, was often carried out by foot. An impediment makes movement or progress difficult, as if getting in the way of the feet.
Medical Dictionary
impediment
noun im·ped·i·ment \im-ˈped-ə-mənt\
Medical Definition of IMPEDIMENT
: something that impedes <children with deafness or hearing impediments>; especially : an impairment (as a stutter or a lisp) that interferes with the proper articulation of speech
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