What does hinder mean?
To hinder is to make an action, process, or outcome more difficult, slower, or impossible. The word is commonly used when an obstacle interferes with progress: a lack of resources may hinder development, bad weather may hinder travel, or uncertainty may hinder someone’s ability to make a decision. “Hinder” is a formal but broadly understandable verb and can describe both practical impediments and less tangible obstacles. It is often followed by a noun such as “progress,” “growth,” or “development,” or by an object naming the affected person or activity. Although similar to “impede” and “obstruct,” hinder often suggests a noticeable slowing or restriction rather than necessarily bringing an action to a complete stop.
verbTo make it difficult or impossible for someone to do something or for something to happen. It can also mean to delay or hold back progress.
- To make it difficult or impossible for someone to do something or for something to happen.
- To delay or prevent progress.
"Heavy rain hindered the construction crew from completing the bridge on time."
"The thick fog hindered the plane from taking off."
"Lack of funding has hindered the charity's efforts to support local schools."
From the idea of being held back from behind, “hinder” has long described anything that stands between a person and progress.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does hinder come from?
Hinder comes from Old English hindrian, meaning “to keep back” or “hold back,” and is related to hind, “behind.” The word entered Middle English as hindren and later developed into the modern form hinder. Its underlying sense is that of being prevented from moving forward from the rear, a meaning still reflected in the word’s use for anything that delays or obstructs progress.
Related word forms
How hinder is actually used
Hinder is formal and neutral in tone. It is often used with progress, development, growth, or a person’s ability to perform an action.
Easily confused with hinder
Hinder means to make an action or outcome difficult, whereas interfere generally means to become involved in or disrupt an activity, often without the same sense of making progress difficult.