hinder

Definition

To make difficult to accomplish; to act as an obstacle; to frustrate.

Etymology

From Middle English hindren, from Old English hindrian, from Proto-Germanic *hindrōną, *hinderōną (“to hinder”), from Proto-Germanic *hinder (“back”) (adverb). Cognate with Dutch hinderen and German hindern, Latin contra (“back, against”).

Example Sentences

• "A drought hinders the growth of plants."
• "We doubt not of a faire and luckie Warre, / Since God ſo graciouſly hath brought to light / This dangerous Treaſon, lurking in our way, / To hinder our beginnings."
• "Arsenal were playing without a recognised full-back – their defence comprising four centre-halves – and the lack of width was hindering their progress."

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