Emily Dickinson Lexicon

IM-PED'I-MENT, n. [L. impedimentum.]

1. That which hinders progress or motion; hinderance; obstruction; obstacle; applicable to every subject, physical or moral. Bad roads are impediments in marching and traveling. Idleness and dissipation are impediments to improvement. The cares of life are impediments to the progress of vital religion.
2. That which prevents distinct articulation; as, an impediment in speech.