hindrance

noun

hin·​drance ˈhin-drən(t)s How to pronounce hindrance (audio)
1
: the state of being interfered with, held back, or slowed down : the state of being hindered
hindrance of speech
2
: a person or thing that interferes with or slows the progress of someone or something : impediment
a hindrance to learning
3
: the act of interfering with or slowing the progress of someone or something : the action of hindering
should be allowed to live where he chooses without hindrance

Examples of hindrance in a Sentence

Is my presence here a help or a hindrance? made a survey of all the hindrances to wheelchair access, such as curbs and stairs
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Russia can help China’s defense of its northern near waters and secure access to far waters through the Arctic Ocean – an increasingly important arena as global climate change reduces the hindrance posed by sea ice. Colin Flint, The Conversation, 3 Oct. 2024 With much of its rugged terrain a hindrance to agriculture, mercenaries became a primary export. Jennifer Wilson, The New Yorker, 4 Nov. 2024 But for others, collaboration can feel like a hindrance, not a help. Benjamin Laker, Forbes, 15 Oct. 2024 At nearly $900 list, its lack of extras like a subwoofer or surround speakers seemed like a serious hindrance. Scott Gilbertson, WIRED, 10 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for hindrance 

Word History

Etymology

see hinder entry 1

First Known Use

1526, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of hindrance was in 1526

Dictionary Entries Near hindrance

Cite this Entry

“Hindrance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hindrance. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

hindrance

noun
hin·​drance ˈhin-drən(t)s How to pronounce hindrance (audio)
1
: the state of being hindered
2
: the action of hindering
3
: something that hinders : impediment

More from Merriam-Webster on hindrance

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