Synonyms of impediment

impediment

noun

im-ˈpe-də-mənt 

as in obstacle

something that makes movement or progress difficult

tough going for the burros on the canyon trail, even without the added impediment of heavy loads

Synonyms & Similar Words

• obstacle
• hurdle
• obstruction
• embarrassment
• barrier
• hindrance
• interference
• burden
• inhibition
• deterrent
• handicap
• encumbrance
• let
• chain
• constraint
• shackles
• block
• stop
• stumbling block
• load
• clog
• hitch
• cramp
• delay
• balk
• trammel
• drag
• danger
• disadvantage
• crimp
• manacle
• brake
• fetter
• bar
• blockage
• blockade
• holdback
• hazard
• difficulty
• curb
• restraint
• arrest
• stone wall
• rub
• stoppage
• brick wall
• embargo
• catch
• drawback
• rein
• hardship
• snag
• peril
• stall
• bit
• reef
• hobble
• holdup
• adversity
• check
• cumber

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• incentive
• impetus
• stimulus
• advantage
• catalyst
• spur
• benefit
• assistance
• edge
• aid
• stimulant
• break
• goad
• help
• boost
• handmaiden

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of impediment

Working together in a blurred state, these electron twins don’t suffer the impediments of their isolated siblings. — Sven Badoux, New Atlas, 23 Oct. 2026

Irwin’s Argan gripes), there are usually also some cute kids trying to get married and some derpy impediment to their union. — Sara Holdren, Vulture, 23 Oct. 2026

Mitte helped fundraise for Shriner’s Children after being treated at Shriners Hospital for Children in Shreveport, Louisiana, after his diagnosis and for most of his childhood to overcome physical and verbal impediments. — Etan Vlessing, HollywoodReporter, 13 Oct. 2026

But plans change, and the reservation system restrictions, initially put in place to manage crowding during the COVID-19 pandemic, had increasingly felt like an impediment. — Todd Martens, Los Angeles Times, 6 Oct. 2026