impede

/ɪmˈpiːd/ verb

Origin

From Latin 'impedire', meaning 'to shackle the feet' (im- 'into' + ped- 'foot')

Definitions

1. To delay, obstruct, or block the progress or movement of something
2. To hinder or interfere with the development or functioning of something

Examples

• Heavy traffic impeded our progress to the airport.
• The bad weather impeded rescue efforts after the earthquake.
• Lack of funding impeded the research project's advancement.
• The fallen trees impeded access to the hiking trail.

Word Forms

• Noun: impediment
• Adjective: impeding
• Adverb: impedingly

Synonyms

• obstruct
• hinder
• hamper
• block
• delay
• constrain
• thwart

Memory Tricks

1. Think "im-FEET" (referring to its Latin root 'ped' meaning foot) - something blocking your feet from moving forward
2. Picture someone putting obstacles in front of your feet while walking
3. Remember the phrase: "When you im-PEDE, you prevent to proceed"

Usage Notes

Often used in formal or technical contexts, particularly when discussing obstacles to progress or development. Commonly found in academic, business, and scientific writing.