impediment
ihm-PEH-dih-muhnt
Impediment (noun) means something that blocks or slows progress. Example: “Lack of funding was the biggest impediment to the project.”
noun
1
Something that blocks or slows progress.
"Lack of funding was the biggest impediment to the project."
2
A condition that affects speech or hearing.
"Working in a noisy factory left me with a slight hearing impediment."
"He worked with a therapist to overcome his speech impediment."
How to use impediment
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAn obstacle — something in the way of progress, or a specific difficulty with speech or hearing.
Common pairings
speech impediment
legal impediment
major impediment
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Word forms
- Plural
- impediments
Fill the gap
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Lack of funding was the biggest _____ to the project.
Etymology
From Latin impedimentum, related to impede.
Synonyms
View more →
baulk
deterrent
check
handicap
obstructer
balk
impedimenta
obstructor
hinderance
hindrance
obstruction
obstacle
Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for impediment
pediment
regiment
sediment
condiment
detriment
sentiment
merriment
compliment
experiment
embodiment
accompaniment
See all rhymes for impediment →
Frequently asked questions
What does “impediment” mean?
The word “impediment” means something that blocks or slows progress. In plain terms, an obstacle — something in the way of progress, or a specific difficulty with speech or hearing.
How do you pronounce “impediment”?
“Impediment” is pronounced ihm-PEH-dih-muhnt (/ɪmˈpɛdɪmənt/ in IPA).
How do you use “impediment” in a sentence?
Here is “impediment” used in a sentence: “Lack of funding was the biggest impediment to the project.”
What is another word for “impediment”?
Words with a similar meaning to “impediment” include hindrance, obstruction and obstacle.
What part of speech is “impediment”?
“Impediment” is a noun.
Where does the word “impediment” come from?
The word “impediment” comes from Latin. From Latin impedimentum, related to impede.
Is “impediment” a common word?
“Impediment” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C1 level.
How many meanings does “impediment” have?
“Impediment” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: something that blocks or slows progress.
