Definitions

1. verb

to limit or restrict someone’s freedom of action, especially by making them fearful or uncertain.

“The scandal hamstrung the politician’s chances of re-election.”

2. noun

a restriction or limitation that severely hampers or impedes something, especially an activity or process.

“The team’s hamstrung offense struggled to score against the tough defense.”

3. adjective

limited or restricted in some way, especially in a way that severely hampers or impedes something.

“The hamstrung economy struggled to recover from the recession.”