Impede

Definition

Impede is a verb meaning to delay or prevent (someone or something) by obstructing them; to hinder or obstruct the progress or movement of.

Parts of Speech

• Verb (transitive)

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA: /ɪmˈpiːd/
• Respelling: im-PEED

British English

• IPA: /ɪmˈpiːd/
• Respelling: im-PEED

Etymology

Early 16th century: from Latin impedīre ‘shackle, entangle’, from in- ‘in, into’ + pedis ‘of a foot’, literally ‘to put a foot within’ or ‘to shackle’.

Derivatives

• impeded (verb past)
• impeding (verb gerund/participle)
• impediment (noun)
• impeder (noun)

Synonyms

• hinder
• hamper
• obstruct
• block
• delay

Antonyms

• facilitate
• promote
• advance
• assist
• expedite

Usage

The verb "impede" is used in formal, technical, and everyday contexts to describe the action of slowing down or blocking progress. For example, "Construction work on the bridge may impede traffic for several weeks," or "His lack of training impeded his performance in the race."

Related Terms

• Obstruction: The state of being blocked or hindered.
• Hindrance: Something that provides resistance or delay.
• Barrier: A fence or other obstacle that prevents movement.
• Obstacle: Something that impedes progress or achievement.
• Delay: A period of time by which something is late or postponed.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To obstruct or block the way of – to place obstacles in the path of something, preventing movement or progress.
  • Example: "Fallen trees impeded the hikers’ path through the forest."
• To delay or slow the progress of – to create difficulty or resistance that makes advancement slower.
  • Example: "Heavy rain impeded rescue efforts after the flood."