clog 1 of 2

clog

2 of 2

verb

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb clog contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of clog are fetter, hamper, manacle, shackle, and trammel. While all these words mean "to hinder or impede in moving, progressing, or acting," clog usually implies a slowing by something extraneous or encumbering.

a court system clogged by frivolous suits

Where would fetter be a reasonable alternative to clog?

While in some cases nearly identical to clog, fetter suggests a restraining so severe that freedom to move or progress is almost lost.

a nation fettered by an antiquated class system

When might hamper be a better fit than clog?

The synonyms hamper and clog are sometimes interchangeable, but hamper may imply the effect of any impeding or restraining influence.

hampered the investigation by refusing to cooperate

How does the word shackle relate to other synonyms for clog?

Both shackle and manacle are stronger than fetter and suggest total loss of freedom.

a mind shackled by stubborn prejudice
a people manacled by tyranny

When can trammel be used instead of clog?

The words trammel and clog are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, trammel suggests entangling by or confining within a net.

rules that trammel the artist's creativity

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of clog
Noun
Long gone are the days of clogs being overlooked, as even high fashion/luxury brands such as Gucci and Balenciaga have introduced clogs in their collections in recent years. David Trainer, Forbes.com, 30 June 2025 While the original film saw Runway employees quickly discarding their commuter clogs for stilettos, Andy traded in her loafers for her famous thigh-high Chanel boots. Hannah Jackson, Vogue, 21 July 2025
Verb
This deep-cleansing formula, powered by salicylic acid, goes beyond the surface to lift away oil, product buildup, and all that environmental gunk that can clog pores and lead to irritation. Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 13 Aug. 2025 Choose non-comedogenic skincare products: Non-comedogenic means the product won’t clog pores or cause acne. Merve Ceylan, Health, 12 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for clog
Recent Examples of Synonyms for clog
Noun
  • Over the past few years, the unchecked expansion of solar farms, heavily subsidized by the federal government and fueled by foreign adversaries like China, has proved a serious obstacle for new farmers.
    Brooke L. Rollins, MSNBC Newsweek, 20 Aug. 2025
  • Legal challenges pose a more likely obstacle to Trump's takeover, as was the case last week.
    Rachel Treisman, NPR, 20 Aug. 2025
Verb
  • The Supreme Court has blocked him on certain removals.
    Eduardo Cuevas, USA Today, 24 Aug. 2025
  • The Department of Defense has been blocking Ukraine from using long-range missiles to strike deep into Russian territory, according to a new report.
    Ellie Cook, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 Aug. 2025
Verb
  • Misconceptions that impede innovation include: R&D Is Solely Responsible for Innovation, The S-Curve Paradox, and Intelligent Failure.
    Merle Symes, Forbes.com, 25 Aug. 2025
  • The metal also helps form the myelin that coats and insulates the communication lines and helps microglial cells clear cellular debris that can impede brain function.
    The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 19 Aug. 2025
Noun
  • The streamlined financial framework is especially attractive to globally mobile entrepreneurs and internationally minded individuals, removing many of the logistical and bureaucratic hurdles that single-nationality status can present.
    Connie Etemadi, USA Today, 30 Aug. 2025
  • But since both Armored Core and Daemon X Machina focus on humanoid machines, this was a much harder hurdle.
    Ollie Barder, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 2025
Verb
  • Keep clear of puddles - Driving through puddles or low rainwater areas can cause vehicles to hydroplane or skid out of control Don't tail large vehicles closely - Trucks or buses can kick up a water spray that obstructs visibility.
    STAR-TELEGRAM WEATHER BOT, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 28 Aug. 2025
  • Gunfire came from outside the sanctuary while students, staff and parishioners were gathered for the service, per earlier coverage by PEOPLE — doors had been obstructed with two-by-fours before the shooting began.
    Christina Coulter, People.com, 28 Aug. 2025
Verb
  • Keep clear of puddles - Driving through puddles or low rainwater areas can cause vehicles to hydroplane or skid out of control Maintain a safe distance from large vehicles - Trucks or buses can produce a water spray that hampers visibility.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 21 Aug. 2025
  • The festival was also hampered by a 15,000 person drop in attendance many organizers attributed to severe weather on one of the biggest festival days.
    Craig Shoup, Nashville Tennessean, 20 Aug. 2025
Noun
  • Guevara, who came to the US from El Salvador in 2004, was charged with improperly entering a pedestrian roadway, obstruction of law enforcement officers and unlawful assembly.
    Nicquel Terry Ellis, CNN Money, 30 Aug. 2025
  • He has since been charged with criminal obstruction of breathing and assault, according to the NYPD.
    Toria Sheffield, People.com, 23 Aug. 2025
Verb
  • French Crust has been filled with laughter, friendships, and countless memories.
    FOX19 NOW, The Enquirer, 23 Aug. 2025
  • The future of Treasure Valley traffic Old farm roads are now filled with cars carrying the residents of new subdivisions.
    Marcus Dorsey, Idaho Statesman, 23 Aug. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Clog.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/clog. Accessed 4 Sep. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on clog

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!