unhindered
unhindered
UK[ʌnˈhɪndəd]US[ʌnˈhɪndərd]
adj
not obstructed or impeded; free to move, act, or progress.
Morpheme Breakdown
un
hinder
ed
un
not
hinder
obstruct
ed
adjective suffix
Etymology
the word 'unhindered' is a modern english formation built upon the old english verb 'hindrian,' meaning to delay or obstruct, which is itself related to the old english 'hindan,' meaning "behind." the addition of the common germanic negating prefix 'un-' creates the meaning "not obstructed." the adjectival suffix '-ed' finalizes the word, describing a state free from obstruction. thus, the literal construction "not obstructed" directly and logically conveys the modern abstract sense of being free from impediment.
Analysis
Structure: un (not) + hinder (obstruct) + ed (adjective suffix)
- un: a prefix of germanic origin (old english) meaning "not," forming a negation.
- hinder: a verb of germanic origin (old english hindrian) meaning "to keep back, delay, or obstruct."
- ed: a suffix of germanic origin (old english -od, -ad) used to form adjectives from verbs or nouns, indicating a state or condition.
Examples
the river flows unhindered to the sea.
she was able to pursue her research unhindered by administrative duties.
the new policy allows for the unhindered exchange of ideas.