obstruction

noun

əb-ˈstrək-shən How to pronounce obstruction (audio)
Definition of obstructionnext
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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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 three suspects could face charges related to unlawful interception, recording, diversion, alteration, obstruction or monitoring of nonpublic electronic communications, which carry up to 10 years in prison. — ABC News, 4 Nov. 2026 Faruqui had flagged that circumstance as unusual, and last week refused to sign off on a superseding complaint that added an obstruction charge against the two ex-officials. — Kevin Breuninger, CNBC, 2 Nov. 2026 Violetta Mailyan, 45, was convicted of nine counts of wire fraud and three counts of obstruction of an investigation of a healthcare offense. — Andrew J. Campa, Los Angeles Times, 1 Nov. 2026 Look for structural integrity, a smooth spinning blade with no obstructions from tape or cardboard, and no unusual sounds or vibrations. — John Alexander, Popular Science, 1 Nov. 2026 See All Example Sentences for obstruction
Recent Examples of Synonyms for obstruction
  1. obstacle
  2. hurdle
  3. embarrassment
  4. interference
  5. barrier
Noun
  • The vote follows an investigation by The Times that highlighted obstacles faced by people trying to obtain restraining orders in cases of domestic abuse.
    — Connor Sheets, Los Angeles Times, 11 Nov. 2026
  • Are subtitles still an obstacle for younger American audiences?
    — Elsa Keslassy, Variety, 10 Nov. 2026
Definition of obstacle
Noun
  • Clinging to outdated graduation hurdles is no substitute for improving teaching and learning.
    — Voice of the People, New York Daily News, 7 Nov. 2026
  • Two major South Baltimore housing projects cleared a key hurdle last week, advancing plans for 500 townhomes in Baltimore Peninsula and 122 townhomes in Locust Point.
    — Lauren Breunig, Baltimore Sun, 7 Nov. 2026
Definition of hurdle
Noun
  • The latest embarrassment came Sunday, when Gang Green squandered a nine-point halftime lead in a 38-33 loss to the Raiders.
    — Antwan Staley, New York Daily News, 2 Nov. 2026
  • What readers are saying The comments reflect a general skepticism towards polling, particularly among Republicans, who are perceived as reluctant to participate due to distrust and embarrassment about their political choices.
    — Scott Clement, Washington Post, 30 Oct. 2026
Definition of embarrassment
Noun
  • The sensor supports the missile’s ability to operate around sophisticated air defense networks, where electronic interference and other battlefield threats can complicate targeting.
    — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 11 Nov. 2026
  • The Broncos held on to beat the Rams 30-26 in Week 3 after a defensive pass interference call negated cornerback Josh Wallace's interception with just over a minute remaining.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 10 Nov. 2026
Definition of interference
Noun
  • This means the One-All bypasses complex, costly safety barriers like airbags and crash-testing certifications that are needed for passenger cars.
    — New Atlas, New Atlas, 7 Nov. 2026
  • Made with a breathable bamboo-viscose surface and waterproof barrier, it's designed to protect against spills without the uncomfortable crinkling of traditional mattress covers.
    — Jacorey Moon, Architectural Digest, 7 Nov. 2026
Definition of barrier

Browse Nearby Words

obstructing
obstruction
obstructions
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Obstruction.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/obstruction. Accessed 13 Nov. 2026.

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