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 of hindrance

• 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

Goaltending wasn’t supposed to be the team’s biggest hindrance, and giving more opportunity to Meriläinen was supposed to be the right move. —Julian McKenzie, New York Times, 9 Jan. 2026

Like Jaxson Dart last season, the Rebels’ offense is a hindrance for teams trying to project whether his abilities translate to the pros. —Eddie Brown, San Diego Union-Tribune, 8 Jan. 2026

Historically, securely locking or temporarily transferring one’s guns was perceived by owners as a hindrance to quick access for home defense. —Russell Lemle, Mercury News, 7 Jan. 2026

The proposal has prompted significant bipartisan backlash in both states, with concerns over the environmental impacts and the potential hindrance to vital tourism economies. —Peter Aitken, MSNBC Newsweek, 5 Dec. 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