barrier

The word “barrier” means a physical structure that blocks passage or access. In plain terms, anything — physical or abstract — that blocks passage or progress.

“Barrier” is pronounced BA-ree-uh (/ˈbæɹi.ə/ in IPA).

Here is “barrier” used in a sentence: “A metal barrier separated the crowd from the runway.”

“Barrier” is a noun.

The word “barrier” comes from Anglo-Norman. From Anglo-Norman barrere, ultimately from barre ("bar").

“Barrier” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.

“Barrier” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a physical structure that blocks passage or access.

A fence is a specific structure, usually of wood, wire, or metal, that marks a boundary, while a barrier is any object or obstacle that blocks passage or access. A fence is one kind of barrier, but a barrier can also be a wall, gate, or even something invisible.

Both hinder progress, but a barrier often blocks completely and can be physical or figurative, while an obstacle is something in the way that must be got around or overcome. A "language barrier" fully blocks understanding; an obstacle is more like a hurdle to clear.

Common collocations include "language barrier," "crash barrier," "sound barrier," "trade barrier," and "barrier to entry." A "barrier to entry" is something that makes it hard to start in a market or field.