To walk lamely, bearing chiefly on one leg; to limp; to walk with a hitch or hop, or with crutches. The friar was hobbling the same way too.

To walk awkwardly, as when the feet are encumbered with a clog, or with fetters.

To move roughly or irregularly, as verse. While you Pindaric truths rehearse, She hobbles in alternate verse.

To perplex.

An unequal halting gait; an encumbered awkward step. He has a hobble in his gait.

Difficulty; perplexity.