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Hamstrung: meaning, definitions and examples

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hamstrung

 

[ ˈhæmstrʌŋ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

inhibit function

To hamstring means to severely limit or restrict someone’s ability to act or function effectively. It often implies being hindered in a way that prevents progress or success.

Synonyms

cripple, hinder, impede, restrict

Examples of usage

  • The new regulations hamstrung the company's ability to innovate.
  • Their plans were hamstrung by a lack of funding.
  • She felt hamstrung by the bureaucratic process.

Translations

Translations of the word "hamstrung" in other languages:

🇵🇹 paralisado

🇮🇳 बाधित

🇩🇪 lahmgelegt

🇮🇩 terhambat

🇺🇦 паралізований

🇵🇱 sparaliżowany

🇯🇵 麻痺した

🇫🇷 paralysé

🇪🇸 paralizado

🇹🇷 felç olmuş

🇰🇷 마비된

🇸🇦 مشلول

🇨🇿 ochromený

🇸🇰 ochromený

🇨🇳 瘫痪的

🇸🇮 ohromljen

🇮🇸 lamslagður

🇰🇿 парализделген

🇬🇪 შეზღუდული

🇦🇿 sınırlanmış

🇲🇽 paralizado

Etymology

The term 'hamstring' originates from the combination of 'ham', which refers to the back of the knee, and 'string', relating to the tendons that connect muscles to bones. The literal meaning of hamstring pertains to the tendons behind the knee; historical practices involved cutting these tendons to incapacitate horses or soldiers. By the late 19th century, the word began to be used figuratively, evolving into a broader sense of hindering or limiting effectiveness in various contexts, such as business and personal endeavors. The figurative use reflects the debilitating impact that can result from restrictions or limitations imposed by circumstances or rules.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,059 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.