Stunted

In relation to growth or development, 'stunted' means to have been slowed or stopped in progress. This can apply to physical growth (e.g., plants, animals, or humans), or to abstract concepts like progress, development, or advancement. It suggests an impediment or limitation preventing optimal or full maturation. It implies a condition of being smaller, less developed, or less advanced than is typical or expected due to adverse conditions or factors.

Stunted meaning with examples

• The poor soil conditions and lack of sunlight severely stunted the growth of the young saplings, leaving them much smaller than the healthy plants.
• The emotional neglect he experienced as a child stunted his social development, making it difficult for him to form close relationships later in life.
• Economic hardship and lack of access to education can often *stunt* the progress of a community, limiting opportunities for advancement.
• A prolonged period of drought stunted the crop yield, resulting in significantly fewer fruits than the farmers had anticipated.
• The restrictive government policies stunted the country's technological advancement, preventing it from keeping pace with global innovations.