impede

UK: ɪmˈpiːd | US: ɪmˈpiːd

Definition

  1. vt. to delay or obstruct the progress of something

  2. vt. to hinder or prevent the free movement of someone or something

Structure
im <against>pede <foot>
Etymology

The word "impede" originates from Latin impedire, meaning "to shackle the feet" or "to entangle." The prefix im- (against) combined with pede (foot) vividly depicts the act of obstructing movement—literally "putting feet in chains." Over time, it evolved metaphorically to describe any form of hindrance or delay.

Examples

  1. Heavy traffic may impede your arrival time.

  2. Poor communication can impede team productivity.

  3. The fallen tree impeded the hikers’ path.

  4. Strict regulations sometimes impede innovation.

  5. Fear of failure should not impede your ambitions.