stymie

[ stahy-mee ]

verb (used with object)

, sty·mied, sty·mie·ing.

1. to hinder, block, or thwart.

   Synonyms: confound, stump, frustrate, perplex

noun

1. a situation or problem presenting such difficulties as to discourage or defeat any attempt to deal with or resolve it.
2. Golf. (on a putting green) an instance of a ball's lying on a direct line between the cup and the ball of an opponent about to putt.

stymie

/ ˈstaɪmɪ /

verb

1. to hinder or thwart
2. golf to impede with a stymie

noun

1. golf (formerly) a situation on the green in which an opponent's ball is blocking the line between the hole and the ball about to be played: an obstructing ball may now be lifted and replaced by a marker
2. a situation of obstruction

Word History and Origins

Origin of stymie¹

First recorded in 1855–60; origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of stymie¹

C19: of uncertain origin

Example Sentences

Progressive groups used that law to stymie similar efforts in Mr. Trump’s first term, and they are gearing up again.

From New York Times

A Times investigation found that first responders on the front lines of the Woolsey fire struggled during those first critical hours, stymied by communication breakdowns and a scarcity of air tanker support, equipment and firefighters.

From Los Angeles Times

I’ve spoken with dozens of veterans who received other-than-honorable discharges and their families and seen the damage caused firsthand: stymied career prospects, limited access to healthcare.

From Los Angeles Times

Gen. Rob Bonta has vowed to take the incoming president to court if his administration tries to stymie the state’s progressive agenda.

From Los Angeles Times

But Trump could stymie, freeze, or even eliminate much of the law.

From Salon

Related Words

• choke off
• crimp
• foil
• impede
• obstruct
• stall
• stonewall
• thwart