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.
The Ukrainian soldiers began to see Russian civilians as a hindrance — or worse, as potential informers who could give away their positions. Ekaterina Bodyagina Nanna Heitmann, New York Times, 12 Feb. 2025 Lost to Indianapolis Colts 26-23 One lesson learned: Loyalty can be a hindrance The Jaguars fired head coach Doug Pederson on Monday, but owner Shan Khan says general manager Trent Baalke is staying. Josh Kendall, The Athletic, 7 Jan. 2025 Spears accepted a plea deal, agreeing to plead guilty to endangering the welfare of a child and hindrance of prosecution. Mark R. Weaver, Newsweek, 4 Dec. 2024 But as the 1820s approached, the rest of the state was settled, and the town's position in the far south was considered a hindrance. Justin L. MacK, Axios, 12 Feb. 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Hindrance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hindrance. Accessed 6 Mar. 2025.

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!