obstruction

ob·struc·tion

noun \əb-ˈstrək-shən, äb-\

Definition of OBSTRUCTION

1

a : the state of being obstructed; especially : a condition of being clogged or blocked

b : an act of obstructing

2

: something that obstructs

Examples of OBSTRUCTION

1. They are removing trees and other obstructions from the path.
2. cases of intestinal obstruction in children
3. She died from an obstruction of the airway.
4. He is on trial for the obstruction of a criminal investigation.

First Known Use of OBSTRUCTION

1533

Related to OBSTRUCTION

Synonyms

balk, bar, block, chain, clog, cramp, crimp, deterrent, drag, embarrassment, fetter, handicap, hindrance, holdback, hurdle, impediment, inhibition, interference, let, manacle, obstacle, encumbrance, shackles, stop, stumbling block, trammel

Related Words

catch, hitch, rub, snag; barrier, blockade, blockage, brick wall, stone wall; arrest, bit, brake, check, constraint, curb, hobble, rein, restraint; embargo, stoppage; delay, holdup, stall; burden, cumber, load; danger, hazard, peril, reef; adversity, difficulty, disadvantage, drawback, hardship

Near Antonyms

catalyst, goad, impetus, incentive, spur, stimulant, stimulus; advantage, break, edge; aid, assistance, benefit, boost, handmaiden (also handmaid), help

Rhymes with OBSTRUCTION

abduction, adduction, conduction, construction, deduction, destruction, eduction, effluxion, induction, instruction, production, reduction, seduction, subduction, transduction

ob·struc·tion

noun \əb-ˈstrək-shən, äb-\   (Medical Dictionary)

Medical Definition of OBSTRUCTION

1

a : an act of obstructing b : a condition of being clogged or blocked <intestinal obstruction>

2

: something that obstructs <dislodge an airway obstruction>