obstruction
Obstruction (noun) means something that blocks a path, passage, or process. Example: “Engineers cleared the obstruction from the drainage pipe.”
How to use obstruction
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomething (or some act) that blocks the way.
Word forms
obstructions plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Engineers cleared the _____ from the drainage pipe.
Etymology
From Latin obstructio, "a blocking, hindrance", from obstruere — see "obstruct".
Related words
Rhymes for obstruction
Frequently asked questions
What does “obstruction” mean?
The word “obstruction” means something that blocks a path, passage, or process. In plain terms, something (or some act) that blocks the way.
How do you pronounce “obstruction”?
“Obstruction” is pronounced uhb-STRUHK-shuhn (/əbˈstɹʌk.ʃən/ in IPA).
How do you use “obstruction” in a sentence?
Here is “obstruction” used in a sentence: “Engineers cleared the obstruction from the drainage pipe.”
What is another word for “obstruction”?
Words with a similar meaning to “obstruction” include block, hindrance, impedance, roadblock and stop.
What part of speech is “obstruction”?
“Obstruction” is a noun.
Where does the word “obstruction” come from?
The word “obstruction” comes from Latin. From Latin obstructio, "a blocking, hindrance", from obstruere — see "obstruct".
Is “obstruction” a common word?
“Obstruction” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “obstruction” have?
“Obstruction” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: something that blocks a path, passage, or process.
What is the difference between obstruction and blockage?
Obstruction and blockage both describe something that blocks a path, passage, or process, and the words are largely interchangeable in everyday use. Obstruction can additionally carry a more formal or legal sense, describing the deliberate act of hindering a process, such as 'obstruction of justice.'
Is obstruction always physical?
No, obstruction can be physical, such as debris blocking a pipe or road, or it can be non-physical, such as deliberately hindering a legal, administrative, or bureaucratic process. Both senses share the core idea of something preventing normal progress.
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