hindrance

noun

hin·​drance ˈhin-drən(t)s 

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

Synonyms

• obstacle
• hurdle
• obstruction
• embarrassment

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

Any service—including SASE—should enhance productivity, not become a hindrance. —Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 25 June 2025

The final year of Joseph’s contract, which carries a $2.95 million cap hit, is clearly a hindrance to the Blues’ books. —Harman Dayal, New York Times, 19 June 2025

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, 25 Mar. 2025

Its omnivorous approach, in search of an everything box for pop songcraft, seems to see imagination itself as a hindrance. —Sheldon Pearce, NPR, 17 June 2025

Word History

Etymology

see hinder entry 1

First Known Use

1526, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing hindrance

• without let or hindrance

Kids Definition

hindrance

noun

hin·​drance ˈhin-drən(t)s 

1

: the state of being hindered

2

: the action of hindering

3

: something that hinders : impediment