impede

im-PEEDverb

Meaning to slow or block movement or progress

Memory hook IM-PED: FEET caught in the mud. Pip’s boots sink deep into the mud, and every step is a struggle. The mud impedes him: it catches his feet.

Thick mud impeded the hikers at every step.

In context Fallen branches impeded the river’s flow, so the water rose behind them and spread across the meadow.

Similar hinder, slow, delay, hold up

Opposite aid, speed, facilitate

From Latin impedire, “to shackle the feet”: in + pes, ped- (foot).