impede
7 synonyms and 4 antonyms for impede, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To slow down or get in the way of progress.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use impede
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Latin impedire, "to shackle the feet" — from pes, "foot" (compare pedestrian). One of its earliest recorded uses in English is in Shakespeare's Macbeth.
Full origin of impede →Frequently asked questions
What does “impede” mean?
The word “impede” means to slow down or get in the way of progress. In plain terms, to slow something down or make it harder to proceed.
How do you pronounce “impede”?
“Impede” is pronounced ihm-PEED (/ɪmˈpiːd/ in IPA).
How do you use “impede” in a sentence?
Here is “impede” used in a sentence: “Heavy rain impeded the rescue effort.”
What is the opposite of “impede”?
The opposite of “impede” — its antonyms — are assist, help, expede and expedite.
What part of speech is “impede”?
“Impede” is a verb.
Where does the word “impede” come from?
The word “impede” comes from Latin. From Latin impedire, "to shackle the feet" — from pes, "foot" (compare pedestrian). One of its earliest recorded uses in English is in Shakespeare's Macbeth.
Is “impede” a common word?
“Impede” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C1 level.