impede

[im-peed]

verb (used with object)

impeded, impeding 

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

Other Word Forms

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

“This effort needed to be coordinated with and adjusted to the plans to redesign and rebuild the Palisades Rec Center to ensure the temporary site would not impede future construction,” Bass’ office said.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Rounds of layoffs, the deferred-resignation plan and other voluntary departure programs, including an early-retirement push, slashed the number of civil servants, impeded work at government sites nationwide and reduced services that Americans rely on.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

But that can be impeded by a "world filled with technological distractions", she argues.

Read more on BBC

He said the amount the former marine was claiming was "wholly unrealistic" as hearing loss had not impeded his career.

Read more on BBC

A misdemeanor assault case against Brayan Ramos-Brito was the first to go to trial after dozens of people were accused of impeding or attacking federal agents during protests against immigration enforcement in Los Angeles.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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