— impedimental /im ped'euh men"tl/ , impedimentary , adj.
/im ped"euh meuhnt/ , n.
1. obstruction; hindrance; obstacle.
2. any physical defect that impedes normal or easy speech; a speech disorder.
3. Chiefly Eccles. Law. a bar, usually of blood or affinity, to marriage: a diriment impediment.
4. Usually, impediments . impedimenta.
[ 1350-1400; ME impedimentum. See IMPEDE, -MENT ]
Syn. 1. bar, encumbrance, check. See obstacle .
Ant. 1. help, encouragement.