verb
obstruct
uhb-STRUHKT
Obstruct (verb) means to block a path or passage so that things can't get through. Example: “A parked van was obstructing the entrance to the garage.”
verb
1
To block a path or passage so that things can't get through.
"A parked van was obstructing the entrance to the garage."
2
To get in the way of a process or plan, making it harder to proceed.
"The senator was accused of trying to obstruct the investigation."
How to use obstruct
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo block something, whether it's a physical path or a process.
Common pairings
obstruct justice
obstruct the view
obstruct traffic
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- obstructs
- Past tense
- obstructed
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
A parked van was _____ the entrance to the garage.
Etymology
From Latin obstruere, "to build up against, block", from ob- ("against") plus struere ("to pile up, build").
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
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.
