obstruct

[uhb-struhkt]

verb (used with object)

1. to block or close up with an obstacle; make difficult to pass.

   Debris obstructed the road.

   Synonyms: arrest, retard, slow, check, prevent, impede, hinder, clog, choke, stop
   Antonyms: further, encourage

2. to interrupt, hinder, or oppose the passage, progress, course, etc., of.

3. to block from sight; to be in the way of (a view, passage, etc.).

obstruct

/ əbˈstrʌkt /

verb

1. to block (a road, passageway, etc) with an obstacle

2. to make (progress or activity) difficult

3. to impede or block a clear view of

Other Word Forms

• obstructedly adverb
• obstructer noun
• obstructor noun
• obstructingly adverb
• obstructive adjective
• preobstruct verb (used with object)
• unobstructed adjective
• obstructiveness noun
• obstructively adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of obstruct¹

First recorded in 1605–15, obstruct is from the Latin word obstructus (past participle of obstruere “to build or pile up in the way, bar”); ob-, construct

Word History and Origins

Origin of obstruct¹

C17: Latin obstructus built against, past participle of obstruere, from ob- against + struere to build

Example Sentences

James Comey, the former director of the US Federal Bureau of Investigation, has pleaded not guilty to making false statements to lawmakers and obstructing a congressional proceeding.

Read more on BBC

David Zinn’s scenic design sets up shop in a way that locates the scene without obstructing the play’s fluidity.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Last year, viewers were subject to a thick marine layer that clouded the skies and nearly obstructed the view of the few planes that still went up.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Mr Comey is set to appear in court on 9 October to be arraigned on charges of lying to Congress and obstructing a congressional proceeding.

Read more on BBC

Authorities said the protest interfered with “the coordination of federal agencies’ personnel and preparation for immigration enforcement activities,” and also “obstructed, delayed, and adversely affected commerce.”

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• block 
• curb 
• cut off 
• hamper 
• hinder 
• impede 
• inhibit 
• interfere 
• obscure 
• retard 
• stall 
• stonewall 
• stymie 
• thwart