Obstruction

Definition

The noun "obstruction" refers to (1) the action of blocking or impeding passage, progress, or an activity; (2) something that blocks or hinders movement or progress; and (3) (legal) the offense of willfully impeding law enforcement or judicial processes.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA: /əbˈstrʌk.ʃən/
• Respelling: uhb-STRUHK-shuhn

British English

• IPA: /əbˈstrʌk.ʃ(ə)n/
• Respelling: uhb-STRUHK-shuhn

Etymology

From Latin obstructio(n-) “a blocking,” from obstruere “to build against, block up” (ob- “against” + struere “to build”). Entered English in the early 15th century.

Derivatives

• Obstruct (verb)
• Obstructive (adjective)
• Obstructionist (noun/adjective)
• Obstructor (noun)

Synonyms

• Blockage
• Hindrance
• Impediment
• Barrier
• Obstacle

Antonyms

• Passage
• Clearance
• Facilitation
• Assistance
• Opening

Usage

"Obstruction" appears in contexts of construction, medicine, politics, and law. Examples: "A fallen tree caused an obstruction on the highway," "He was charged with obstruction of justice," and "The surgeon removed the bowel obstruction."

Related Terms

• Barrier: A structure that blocks passage.
• Impediment: Something that hinders or delays.
• Clog: Something that blocks a duct or passage.
• Obstructionist: A person who deliberately delays or prevents progress.
• Blockage: The state of being blocked.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The action of blocking or impeding passage or progress: Refers to acts that prevent movement or completion of an activity.
  • Example: "The demonstration created an obstruction in front of the capitol building."
• Something that blocks or hinders: A physical or figurative barrier causing delay or difficulty.
  • Example: "Debris in the pipeline resulted in a serious obstruction of water flow."
• (Legal) The offense of impeding law enforcement or judicial processes: The act of willfully preventing officials from performing their duties.
  • Example: "The politician faced charges of obstruction of justice for hiding evidence."