obstructionist

[uhb-struhk-shuh-nist]

noun

1. a person who deliberately delays or prevents progress.

2. a person who delays or obstructs the business before a legislative body by parliamentary contrivances or legalistic maneuvers.

obstructionist

/ əbˈstrʌkʃənɪst /

noun

1. 1. a person who deliberately obstructs business, esp in a legislature

   2. ( as modifier )

      obstructionist tactics

Other Word Forms

• obstructionism noun
• obstructionistic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of obstructionist¹

First recorded in 1840–50; obstruction + -ist

Example Sentences

On Wednesday Hamas accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of disregarding the mediators' ceasefire proposal and said he was the "real obstructionist of any agreement", according to a statement cited by Reuters.

From BBC

This meant gridlocking legislative processes with obstructionist voting, using free speech guarantees to sow hatred and mistrust, and exploiting and abusing the judicial system in every way possible.

From Salon

She added that, "there can be no more cynical moves or obstructionist tactics by the British government". and a public inquiry is needed to "at last establish the full truth around Sean Brown's murder".

From BBC

Gaetz’s obstructionist conduct and general demeanor earned him widespread disdain on Capitol Hill.

From Salon

“The abovementioned concerns and beliefs are not a personal attack on Captain Khasaempanth or the numerous executives named in my investigation, nor am I an obstructionist or malcontent,” Morris wrote in his March 2023 email.

From Los Angeles Times