roadblock

American  

[rohd-blok] / ˈroʊdˌblɒk /

noun

1. an obstruction placed across a road, especially of barricades or police cars, for halting or hindering traffic, as to facilitate the capture of a pursued car or inspection for safety violations.

2. an obstruction on a road, as a fallen tree or a pile of fallen rocks.

3. a hastily built barricade, as of barbed wire, erected across a road to hold up the advance of an enemy.

4. an action, condition, etc., that obstructs progress toward an objective.

   Nationalism is a roadblock to European unity.

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verb (used with object)

1. to halt or obstruct with or as if with a roadblock.

roadblock British  

/ ˈrəʊdˌblɒk /

noun

1. a barrier set up across a road by the police or military, in order to stop a fugitive, inspect traffic, etc

2. a difficulty or obstacle to progress

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Etymology

Origin of roadblock

First recorded in 1935–40; road + block

Example Sentences

As Europe seeks to curb its dependence on China for rare earths, plans to mine the continent's biggest deposit have hit a roadblock over fears that mining operations could harm endangered beetles, mosses and mushrooms.

From Barron's

The loss dropped the Rams record to 11-4, knocked them out of first place in the NFC West and put a major roadblock in their pursuit of home-field advantage for the playoffs.

From Los Angeles Times

At this “new peak,” no matter the noise that surrounds her or the roadblocks ahead, Kehlani’s priority is her health above all.

From Los Angeles Times

Rising Treasury yields could be an roadblock for small caps, but fundamentals finally have started to improve, says one money manager.

From The Wall Street Journal

Motorists who ventured out reported frequent checks at roadblocks, where officers questioned drivers about their destinations.

From BBC

Related Words

• barricade
• blockade