Synonyms of hamstring

hamstring

verb

as in to paralyze

to render powerless, ineffective, or unable to move

the downtown development committee claims that it's hamstrung by city ordinances protecting historic buildings

Synonyms & Similar Words

• paralyze
• cripple
• undermine
• weaken
• incapacitate
• immobilize
• disable
• undercut
• attenuate
• prostrate
• hobble
• sap
• debilitate
• maim
• enfeeble
• tire
• mutilate
• enervate
• lame
• knock out

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• invigorate
• strengthen
• energize
• galvanize
• vitalize
• fortify
• restore
• empower
• revive
• revitalize
• regenerate
• rejuvenate
• refresh
• freshen
• refreshen

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of hamstring

Industry stakeholders argued that the measure had the unintended consequence of hamstringing Hollywood’s recovery by limiting the ability of studios to use state incentives for in-state production. — Gene Maddaus, Variety, 29 Aug. 2026

Gorbachev, hamstrung by demands from hard-liners back in Moscow, was equally intransigent that no deal could be made so long as SDI was in the works. — Tom Nichols, The Atlantic, 14 Aug. 2026

The analysts said their supply chain checks suggest an all-glass iPhone, reportedly planned for September 2027, has been canceled, hamstringing its ability to raise average selling prices in the coming years. — Jeff Marks, CNBC, 10 Aug. 2026

While the Cubs World Series odds will largely dictate their aggressiveness this deadline, they won’t be hamstrung by a lack of talent in their system. — Sahadev Sharma, New York Times, 20 July 2026