Impede
To block; to obstruct
verbImpede
To block; to obstruct
verbImagine This
When the stampede of the elephants went through the African village, it blocked the way people used to travel until the elephants left.
Sounds Like
Stampede (race)
Looks Like
Impeded, impediment (similar root); looks like the noun impediment
Remember This
Impeded is closely related to impediment; 'impede' is the verb; 'impediment' is the noun for an obstacle.
Other Forms
Connect With
hinder, obstruct, hamper, inhibit, thwart, delay
Note
Note: Impede means to hinder the progress of something or someone; it does not imply a complete stoppage, but slows or blocks progress. Do not confuse with 'prevent' which often implies stopping something from happening entirely.
Study Deeper
- The fallen tree impeded the road, delaying travelers.
- Bureaucratic delays impeded the project's progress.
From Latin impedire 'to hinder, shackle', from in- 'in' + pes/ped 'foot' (to pin down the feet).
Mnemonic: IMPEDE — Inhibit Movement; Prevent Easy Departure.
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Similar Words
Related words and words with the same part of speech.
Hamper
verbTo hinder or impede movement, progress, or action; to prevent someone or something from moving freely.
Abandon
verbTo give up completely, to desert or leave behind, or to relinquish a claim, plan, or responsibility.
Abate
verbTo decrease in amount or intensity; to reduce or end something.
Abolish
verbTo formally end or repeal a system, practice, or institution; to officially put an end to something established.
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verbTo shorten (a text, speech, or other work) by omitting parts; to condense.
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verbTo depart secretly or flee, especially to avoid detection or arrest.