hurdle

¹hur·dle

noun \ˈhər-d^əl\

Definition of HURDLE

1

a : a portable panel usually of wattled withes and stakes used especially for enclosing land or livestock b : a frame or sled formerly used in England for dragging traitors to execution

2

a : an artificial barrier over which racers must leap b plural : any of various track events in which a series of hurdles must be surmounted

3

: barrier, obstacle

Examples of HURDLE

1. He won a medal in the high hurdles.
2. The company faces severe financial hurdles this year.

Illustration of HURDLE

Origin of HURDLE

Middle English hurdel, from Old English hyrdel; akin to Old High German hurt hurdle, Latin cratis wickerwork, hurdle

First Known Use: before 12th century

Related to HURDLE

Synonyms: balk, bar, block, chain, clog, cramp, crimp, deterrent, drag, embarrassment, fetter, handicap, hindrance, holdback, encumbrance, impediment, inhibition, interference, let, manacle, obstacle, obstruction, shackles, stop, stumbling block, trammel

Related Words: catch, hitch, rub, snag; barrier, blockade, blockage, brick wall, stone wall; arrest, bit, brake, check, constraint, curb, hobble, rein, restraint; embargo, stoppage; delay, holdup, stall; burden, cumber, load; danger, hazard, peril, reef; adversity, difficulty, disadvantage, drawback, hardship

Near Antonyms: catalyst, goad, impetus, incentive, spur, stimulant, stimulus; advantage, break, edge; aid, assistance, benefit, boost, handmaiden (also handmaid), help

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Rhymes with HURDLE

curdle, girdle