impede
Impede (verb) means to slow down or get in the way of progress. Example: “Heavy rain impeded the rescue effort.”
How to use impede
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo slow something down or make it harder to proceed.
Word forms
impeded past tense, impedes singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Heavy rain _____ the rescue effort.
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.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for impede
See all rhymes for 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.