OBSTRUCTION Synonyms: 78 Similar and Opposite Words

obstruction

noun

əb-ˈstrək-shən

Definition of obstruction

as in obstacle

something that makes movement or progress difficult an obstruction in the drain has the water all backed up

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of obstruction The protesters faced felony charges for conspiracy and misdemeanor charges for obstruction, but the case fell apart in two steps. — Sara Tenenbaum, CBS News, 25 Sep. 2026 Cops arrested Eric Avrutov, 31, and charged him with assault, criminal obstruction of breathing and harassment. — Roni Jacobson, New York Daily News, 24 Sep. 2026 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 Most outdoor units discharge hot air vertically, so an obstruction directly overhead can interfere with that airflow. — Rachel Silva, Martha Stewart, 19 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for obstruction

Recent Examples of Synonyms for obstruction

Noun

Rather than simply detecting physical obstacles, the system distinguishes between different types of messes and household objects to optimize cleaning strategies.

— New Atlas, New Atlas, 29 Sep. 2026
His efforts, however, encountered their greatest obstacle after World War II due to the suspicions aroused by Philip’s family’s uncomfortable ties to the Nazis.

— Diego Parrado, Vanity Fair, 29 Sep. 2026

Definition of obstacle

Noun

This year, for example, Regan dropped an initiative that would have restricted hospital executives’ pay, in exchange for the California Hospital Association not imposing new administrative hurdles on unions pursuing political campaigns.

— Nicholas Lemann, New Yorker, 4 Oct. 2026
One of the biggest hurdles the state faces is communicating to the public the importance of these fires.

— Taylor Romine, CNN Money, 4 Oct. 2026

Definition of hurdle

Noun

Then came three more defeats, capped by a 12-1 embarrassment on Saturday against the AL East champion Rays.

— CBS News, CBS News, 28 Sep. 2026
The revocation become a national story, and a source of embarrassment within TCU’s small, loyal community.

— Mac Engel September 24, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 24 Sep. 2026

Definition of embarrassment

Noun

War Secretary Pete Hegseth is mobilizing the Pentagon’s cybersecurity and intelligence resources to protect against foreign interference in the 2026 midterm elections.

— Molly Parks, The Washington Examiner, 29 Sep. 2026
But officials cited Wallace for pass interference, giving the Broncos another set of downs.

— Gary Klein, Los Angeles Times, 29 Sep. 2026

Definition of interference

Browse Nearby Words

obstructing

obstruction

obstructions

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“Obstruction.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/obstruction. Accessed 5 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of obstruction

noun

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