Hobbled means to walk with difficulty because of pain, injury, or a problem with the body. It can also mean being slowed down or held back by something.
People use “hobbled” in everyday English to describe someone who cannot move normally, like after hurting a leg or foot. It is also used more broadly for things like a business, plan, or project that is limited by a problem.
Meaning & Usage
If a person is hobbled, they may limp or move slowly because something is making it hard to walk. For example, “He was hobbled by a knee injury.” In a wider sense, you can say something is hobbled when it cannot perform well because of a weakness or obstacle.
Examples
“She hobbled to the car after twisting her ankle.”
“The team was hobbled by injuries to key players.”
“The company was hobbled by debt.”
Is “hobbled” only used for people?
No. It is often used for people, but it can also describe groups, plans, or organizations that are slowed down or limited by a problem.
Does “hobbled” always mean injured?
Not always. It can mean injured or walking with difficulty, but it can also mean being held back in a more general way.
Is “hobbled” formal or informal?
It is common in everyday English and also works well in news writing and general conversation.
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