hamstring

²hamstring

verb

hamstrung \-ˌstrəŋ\hamstring·ing \-ˌstriŋ-iŋ\

Definition of HAMSTRING

transitive verb

1

: to make ineffective or powerless : cripple <hamstrung by guilt>

2

: to cripple by cutting the leg tendons

Examples of HAMSTRING

1. The mayor tried to hamstring our efforts by cutting the budget.
2. The company claims it is being hamstrung by government regulations.

First Known Use of HAMSTRING

1641

Related to HAMSTRING

Synonyms: cripple, disable, paralyze, immobilize, incapacitate, prostrate

Related Words: attenuate, debilitate, enervate, enfeeble, sap, tire, undercut, undermine, weaken; hobble, lame; maim, mutilate; knock out

Near Antonyms: energize, galvanize, invigorate, vitalize; fortify, strengthen; empower; freshen, refresh, refreshen, regenerate, rejuvenate, restore, revitalize, revive

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