impede

[ im-peed ]

verb (used with object)

, im·ped·ed, im·ped·ing.

1. to retard in movement or progress by means of obstacles or hindrances; obstruct; hinder.

   Synonyms: thwart, block, stop, check, delay, slow

   Antonyms: encourage, advance

impede

/ ɪmˈpiːd /

verb

1. tr to restrict or retard in action, progress, etc; hinder; obstruct

Derived Forms

• imˈpedingly, adverb
• imˈpeder, noun

Other Words From

• im·ped·er noun
• im·ped·i·bil·i·ty [im-pee-d, uh, -, bil, -i-tee, -ped-, uh, -], noun
• im·ped·i·ble adjective
• im·ped·ing·ly adverb
• un·im·ped·ing adjective
• un·im·ped·ing·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of impede¹

First recorded in 1595–1605; from Latin impedīre “to entangle,” literally, “to snare the feet”; im- ¹, pedi- ( def )

Word History and Origins

Origin of impede¹

C17: from Latin impedīre to hinder, literally: shackle the feet, from pēs foot

Synonym Study

See prevent.

Example Sentences

Twenty-seven were rejected by Israeli authorities and the other four were severely impeded, meaning they were prevented from accomplishing all the work they set out to do.

From BBC

But many say that, in recent times, access to trees on their land has been impeded, often violently by Israeli settlers.

From BBC

Zeldin’s lack of environmental experience could impede efforts to dismantle regulations, which takes loads of expertise, legal rigor and time.

From Los Angeles Times

How destructive his term will be remains unknowable, but his helter-skelter, vengeance-fueled approach to wielding power may have the ironic effect of impeding his ability to deliver on his more radical promises.

From Salon

Antwoine Williams is facing felony charges of civil disorder and assaulting, resisting or impeding police, along with several lesser misdemeanour charges.

From BBC

Related Words

• block
• curb
• cut off
• delay
• deter
• disrupt
• hamper
• interfere
• retard
• slow
• stymie
• thwart