Other

obstruct

Syllabification: (ob·struct)

Definition of obstruct

[with object]

block (an opening, path, road, etc.); be or get in the way of:she was obstructing the entrance
prevent or hinder (movement or someone or something in motion):they had to alter the course of the stream and obstruct the natural flow of the water
deliberately make (something) difficult:fears that the regime would obstruct the distribution of food
Law commit the offense of intentionally hindering (a legal process).
(in various sports) impede (a player on the opposing team) in a manner that constitutes an offense.

Derivatives

late 16th century: from Latin obstruct- 'blocked up', from the verb obstruere, from ob- 'against' + struere 'build, pile up'

Definition of obstruct in the British & World English dictionary

Nearby words