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.

“The shift away from tent-dwelling towards rough sleeping will impede strategies to resolve unsheltered homelessness,” the new report said.

From Los Angeles Times • May 22, 2026

Fed minutes will do nothing to impede the march higher in yields, said Andrew Hollenhorst, U.S. chief economist at Citi.

From MarketWatch • May 19, 2026

Last week, Canada’s Finance Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne ordered government departments to remove policies that impede competition.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 5, 2026

“CENTCOM forces will not impede freedom of navigation for vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz to and from non-Iranian ports.”

From Salon • Apr. 14, 2026

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

From "Anger Is a Gift" by Mark Oshiro

Vocabulary lists containing impede

List 1

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The Tragedy of Macbeth

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Monster

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