hinder 1 of 2

as in rear
being at or in the part of something opposite the front part the animal's case of mange was especially bad in its hinder parts

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

hinder

2 of 2

verb

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb hinder contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of hinder are block, impede, and obstruct. While all these words mean "to interfere with the activity or progress of," hinder stresses causing harmful or annoying delay or interference with progress.

rain hindered the climb

Where would block be a reasonable alternative to hinder?

The words block and hinder can be used in similar contexts, but block implies complete obstruction to passage or progress.

a landslide blocked the road

When would impede be a good substitute for hinder?

The words impede and hinder are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, impede implies making forward progress difficult by clogging, hampering, or fettering.

tight clothing that impedes movement

When could obstruct be used to replace hinder?

The meanings of obstruct and hinder largely overlap; however, obstruct implies interfering with something in motion or in progress by the sometimes intentional placing of obstacles in the way.

the view was obstructed by billboards

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 hinder
Verb
The deployment appeared to be the first time in decades that a state’s National Guard was activated without a request from its governor, a significant escalation against those who have sought to hinder the administration’s mass deportation efforts. Lolita C. Baldor, Chicago Tribune, 10 June 2025 Digital clutter— unread emails, countless open tabs, and thousands of unorganized photos—can feel like a burden and actually hinder your productivity and focus. Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 June 2025 When Kustom Hustle Tattoo Parlor decided to create high-quality merch for customers and those fascinated with American traditional imagery, its plans were hindered by an evident gap in the market. Jason Phillips, USA Today, 7 June 2025 Keeping only the top few inches of soil moist will encourage roots to stay in that shallow layer instead of expanding deeper into the soil, hindering the development of that anchoring system. Heather Zidack, Hartford Courant, 7 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for hinder
Recent Examples of Synonyms for hinder
Adjective
  • Airstream In place of the dinette/convertible secondary bed Airstream trailers would typically house in this rear space, Airstream installs the main bedroom area to give owners the opportunity to enjoy scenic views and fresh air from the comfort of bed.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 7 June 2025
  • The cart seats four, thanks to the inclusion of a rear bench, and the hard-shell roof extends over the back to keep all passengers dry and shaded.
    Olivia Young, Travel + Leisure, 5 June 2025
Verb
  • Protesters should remain on sidewalks where possible and avoid impeding traffic or emergency access, Honeycutt said.
    Kendrick Calfee, Kansas City Star, 13 June 2025
  • The union leader — whose organization represents approximately 750,000 people — is accused of conspiracy to impede an officer.
    Brittny Mejia, Los Angeles Times, 11 June 2025
Adjective
  • There was no single issue bonding together these early trailblazers other than a desire to offer an alternative view on clubs whose media coverage was largely restricted to the back page of the local newspaper and a rather staid, flimsy matchday programme.
    Richard Sutcliffe, New York Times, 7 June 2025
  • Perfect for a vanity, living room, or anywhere that could use additional seating, this upholstered throne has earned over 1,000 five-star reviews on Amazon for its softness, back support and ease of assembly.
    Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 June 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, 9 June 2025
  • Hundreds of law enforcement officers at the local, state and federal level spent nearly two weeks searching for Hardin, using dogs, drones and aircraft, at times hampered by severe weather.
    Jeanine Santucci, USA Today, 8 June 2025
Verb
  • Jones pleaded guilty to one misdemeanor charge of obstructing police, per The New York Times.
    Charlotte Phillipp, People.com, 7 June 2025
  • Last December, after a trial without a jury, U.S. District Judge Amy Berman Jackson convicted Lamond of one count of obstructing justice and three counts of making false statements.
    Michael Kunzelman, Los Angeles Times, 7 June 2025
Verb
  • The following program will contain graphic stupidity, as four friends compete to embarrass one another – only this time in Lithuania.
    Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 9 June 2025
  • Races are sometimes won by runners making a move from the back of the pack, and L.A. could still find its stride, show some pride, and avoid embarrassing itself.
    Steve Lopez, Los Angeles Times, 7 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Hinder.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/hinder. Accessed 18 Jun. 2025.

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