plural hindrances
1
: a person or thing that makes a situation difficult : a person or thing that hinders someone or something
She wanted to sign up for the class, but the cost was a hindrance. [=the class cost too much]
Is my presence here a help or a hindrance?
—often + toI'm afraid you're more of a hindrance to me than a help at this point.
These sanctions are a hindrance to the country's economic growth.
2
: the act of making it difficult for someone to act or for something to be done : the act of hindering someone or something
He should be allowed to live where he chooses without hindrance. = (chiefly Brit) He should be allowed to live where he chooses without let or hindrance.
Cite this Entry
“Hindrance.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/hindrance. Accessed 23 Jun. 2026.
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