obstruction

noun

ob·​struc·​tion əb-ˈstrək-shən 

äb-

1

a

: the state of being obstructed

especially : a condition of being clogged or blocked

an intestinal obstruction

She died from an obstruction of the airway.

b

: an act of obstructing

Passage of the law was delayed by the congressman's obstruction.

2

: something that obstructs

removing obstructions that block the path

a view without obstruction

Synonyms of obstruction

• obstacle
• hurdle
• embarrassment
• interference
• barrier

Examples of obstruction in a Sentence

They are removing trees and other obstructions from the path.

cases of intestinal obstruction in children

She died from an obstruction of the airway.

He is on trial for the obstruction of a criminal investigation.

Recent Examples on the Web

Shapiro says those with dealing with health issues such gallstones or bile duct obstruction, kidney stones, iron-deficiency anemia, and liver disease should consult their doctors. — Nadine El Chaer, Vogue, 19 Sep. 2026

Diamond also took the unusual step of recommending that the DOJ investigate whether Krasner committed any crimes, including perjury and obstruction of justice, according to court documents. — Eva Andersen, CBS News, 15 Sep. 2026

Police also said Myisha Donaldson, 47, was arrested and charged with one count of obstruction of apprehension or prosecution in relation to the shooting. — Nathan Pilling, Kansas City Star, 14 Sep. 2026

The Raoni Institute said the cancer diagnosis in the chief's digestive system was confirmed after he was hospitalized in Sao Paulo in June due to a severe intestinal obstruction. — ABC News, 14 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1533, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for obstruction

• abduction
• adduction
• conduction
• construction
• deduction
• destruction
• eduction
• induction
• instruction
• production
• reduction
• seduction

Kids Definition

obstruction

noun

ob·​struc·​tion əb-ˈstrək-shən 

äb-

1

: an act of obstructing : the state of being obstructed

2

: something that gets in the way : obstacle

Medical Definition

obstruction

noun

ob·​struc·​tion əb-ˈstrək-shən, äb- 

1

a

: an act of obstructing

b

: a condition of being clogged or blocked

intestinal obstruction

2

: something that obstructs

dislodge an airway obstruction