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

But Wallace uses this hindrance as inspiration for creative ways of translating King’s writing to the small screen. — Literary Hub, 28 Aug. 2026

Election experts say confusion, rather than actual changes to law, could be the main hindrance to voter participation in November. — Amber Phillips, Washington Post, 25 Aug. 2026

Rectitude is a hindrance in the game of electoral politics, where money greases the slippery pole and glad-hands welcome the winner with inside information. — Voice Of The People, New York Daily News, 24 Aug. 2026

Mike Evans returned from a week’s absence and showed no hindrance from a quadriceps strain. — Cam Inman, Mercury News, 11 Aug. 2026

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