obstruct
25 synonyms and 5 antonyms for obstruct, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To block a path or passage so that things can't get through.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use obstruct
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
obstruct justice
obstruct the view
obstruct traffic
Etymology
From Latin obstruere, "to build up against, block", from ob- ("against") plus struere ("to pile up, build").
Full origin of obstruct →Frequently asked questions
What does “obstruct” mean?
The word “obstruct” means to block a path or passage so that things can't get through. In plain terms, to block something, whether it's a physical path or a process.
How do you pronounce “obstruct”?
“Obstruct” is pronounced uhb-STRUHKT (/əbˈstɹʌkt/ in IPA).
How do you use “obstruct” in a sentence?
Here is “obstruct” used in a sentence: “A parked van was obstructing the entrance to the garage.”
What is another word for “obstruct”?
Words with a similar meaning to “obstruct” include barricade, block, choke, clog, close off and forslow.
What is the opposite of “obstruct”?
The opposite of “obstruct” — its antonyms — are clear, deobstruct, open and unblock.
What part of speech is “obstruct”?
“Obstruct” is a verb.
Where does the word “obstruct” come from?
The word “obstruct” comes from Latin. From Latin obstruere, "to build up against, block", from ob- ("against") plus struere ("to pile up, build").
How many meanings does “obstruct” have?
“Obstruct” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to block a path or passage so that things can't get through.
