Synonyms

impede

American

[im-peed] / ɪmˈpid /

verb (used with object)

impeded, impeding

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 British

/ ɪmˈpiːd /

verb

(tr) to restrict or retard in action, progress, etc; hinder; obstruct

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Related Words

See prevent.

Other Word Forms

impeder noun
impedibility noun
impedible adjective
impedingly adverb
unimpeding adjective
unimpedingly adverb

Etymology

Origin of impede

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

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Antidebt crusaders, like the personal-finance radio host Dave Ramsey, have been speaking for years about how paying thousands of dollars in interest can seriously impede a family’s ability to make progress on their other goals.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 9, 2026

LeMay, predictably, was “solidly opposed” to the treaty, arguing it would impede military readiness and constrain America’s nuclear capability.

From Salon • Apr. 8, 2026

The latest draft, seen by AFP, demands Iran end attacks on commercial vessels and halt "any attempt to impede transit passage or freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz".

From Barron's • Apr. 7, 2026

But for Day, the recommendations are frustrating and impede his independence.

From BBC • Apr. 1, 2026

It might be a bit snug, but it didn’t impede his breathing.

From "Anger Is a Gift" by Mark Oshiro

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023