stumbling block

noun

stum·​bling block ˈstəm-bliŋ- How to pronounce stumbling block (audio)
1
: an obstacle to progress
2
: an impediment to belief or understanding : perplexity

Examples of stumbling block in a Sentence

Lack of funds is a major stumbling block to the project. My plans hit a stumbling block.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott had an equally impressive day, completing 25 of 34 passes for 261 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions, but Dallas’ defense proved to be its stumbling block again. The Athletic Nfl Staff, New York Times, 12 Oct. 2025 This confrontation between the local and the global, in terms that resonate with the thinking of Homi K. Bhabha, was the crux of the biennial—and long remained the stumbling block to any significant change in the relationships that governed the world. Simon Njami, Artforum, 1 Oct. 2025 That’s the biggest stumbling block to processing what’s really happening right now. Jim Cramer, CNBC, 28 Sep. 2025 Without proper infrastructure, even the most advanced technology can become a stumbling block rather than a solution. Theresa McDonnell, Forbes.com, 19 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for stumbling block

Word History

First Known Use

1588, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of stumbling block was in 1588

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Cite this Entry

“Stumbling block.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stumbling%20block. Accessed 20 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

stumbling block

noun
stum·​bling block ˈstəm-bliŋ- How to pronounce stumbling block (audio)
1
: an obstacle to belief or understanding
2
: an obstacle to progress
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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