impede
/ɪmˈpiːd/
Group 9Difficulty 1/3
Definition
- (verb)
- To delay or prevent something by obstructing; to hinder GRE
Example in Context
Bureaucratic red tape continued to impede the delivery of relief supplies to communities that had been waiting weeks for assistance.
Synonyms
blockhinderobstruct
Etymology
To not allow something to rush forward; to hinder.
- im- (Latin) — not
- pedere (Latin) — to rush
Memory Aid
🛑Sounds like “impede”
Imagine a giant foot trying to IMPED a speeding car, yelling 'STOP!' at the top of its lungs!
Visual Association
🚧A construction sign blocking a road, preventing cars from moving forward.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “impede” mean on the GRE?
impede (verb) means “To delay or prevent something by obstructing; to hinder”. Bureaucratic red tape continued to impede the delivery of relief supplies to communities that had been waiting weeks for assistance.
How to remember “impede” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “impede” sounds like “impede”. Imagine a giant foot trying to IMPED a speeding car, yelling 'STOP!' at the top of its lungs!
What are synonyms for “impede”?
Common synonyms: block, hinder, obstruct.