hindrance

[ hin-druhns ]

noun

1. an impeding, stopping, preventing, or the like.
2. the state of being hindered.
3. a person or thing that hinders.

   Synonyms: restraint, check, obstruction, encumbrance, impediment

   Antonyms: aid

hindrance

/ ˈhɪndrəns /

noun

1. an obstruction or snag; impediment
2. the act of hindering; prevention

Word History and Origins

Origin of hindrance¹

First recorded in 1400–50, hindrance is from the late Middle English word hinderaunce. See hinder ¹, -ance

Synonym Study

See obstacle.

Example Sentences

At first, Bishop said, she thought her age would be the biggest hindrance to her candidacy, but she found that people were open to hearing her out and could sense her passion.

From Slate

Unregulated social media poses a hindrance to the development of young people.

From Salon

In early 2023, Gov. Gavin Newsom cited state law as a hindrance to giving schools extra funding to support Black students.

From Los Angeles Times

In ‘The De Palma Decade,’ Laurent Bouzereau’s unabashed adoration of director Brian De Palma can be a hindrance to deeper understanding.

From Los Angeles Times

In ‘The De Palma Decade,’ Laurent Bouzereau’s unabashed adoration of director Brian De Palma can be a hindrance to deeper understanding.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• barrier
• deterrent
• drawback
• handicap
• hitch
• impediment
• interference
• interruption
• obstacle
• snag
• stumbling block