obstruction

[uhb-struhk-shuhn]

noun

1. something that obstructs, blocks, or closes up with an obstacle or obstacles; obstacle or hindrance.

   obstructions to navigation.

   Synonyms: impediment, bar, barrier
   Antonyms: encouragement

2. an act or instance of obstructing.

3. the state of being obstructed.

   Synonyms: stoppage
   Antonyms: encouragement

4. the delaying or preventing of business before a deliberative body, especially a legislative group, by parliamentary contrivances.

obstruction

/ əbˈstrʌkʃən /

noun

1. a person or thing that obstructs

2. the act or an instance of obstructing

3. delay of business, esp in a legislature by means of procedural devices

4. sport the act of unfairly impeding an opposing player

5. the state or condition of being obstructed

Other Word Forms

• obstructionally adverb
• obstructional adjective
• preobstruction noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of obstruction¹

First recorded in 1525–35; from Latin obstructiōn- (stem of obstructiō ) “barrier.” See obstruct, -ion

Synonym Study

See obstacle.

Example Sentences

“With excessive noise, disruptive behavior, obstruction of the public right of way, litter and vandalism, party houses are well-known to impact neighborhood quality and threaten public safety,” L.A.

From Los Angeles Times

The UN and other aid organisations have reported significant impediments and obstructions in being able to collect and distribute aid in Gaza.

From BBC

This raised the prospect of deliberate concealment or obstruction to further investigation according to the assistant coroner, Prof Andrew Harris, who said he intended to notify the Foreign Office of this conduct.

From BBC

A spokesperson said a flag would be removed "if they are causing an obstruction or other safety issue or if offensive language has been used".

From BBC

Primary among them is the report's acknowledgement that this situation is "entirely man-made", with aid organisations today accusing Israel of the "systematic obstruction" of food entering the Gaza Strip.

From BBC

Related Words

• blockage 
• hindrance 
• interference