impede

[im-peed] / ɪmˈpid /

VERB

obstruct, hinder

Synonyms

STRONGEST

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

STRONG

bar brake check clog dam discomfit disconcert embarrass faze freeze oppose rattle restrain stonewall stop

WEAK

blow whistle on close off cramp one's style dead-end flag one hang up hold up saddle with shut down shut off slow down

Antonyms

STRONGEST

advance aid allow assist encourage expedite forward help permit promote push

STRONG

comfort continue free go liberate open release soothe unblock unclog

WEAK

facilitate support

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

Brussels attempts to impose rule-of-law strictures that would impede, say, corruption.

From The Wall Street Journal • 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

As in all consensus-driven bodies, though, members felt intense pressure not to impede progress with frivolous objections.

From "1491" by Charles C. Mann

Vocabulary lists containing impede

List 1

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The Tragedy of Macbeth

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Monster

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