Main Entry:

bar·ri·er

Pronunciation:

\ˈber-ē-ər, ˈba-rē-\

Function:

noun

Etymology:

Middle English barrere, from Anglo-French, from barre bar

Date:

14th century

1 a: something material that blocks or is intended to block passage <highway barriers> <a barrier contraceptive> b: a natural formation or structure that prevents or hinders movement or action <geographic barriers to species dissemination> <barrier beaches> <drugs that cross the placental barrier>2plural often capitalized : a medieval war game in which combatants fight on foot with a fence or railing between them3: something immaterial that impedes or separates : obstacle <behavioral barriers> <trade barriers>