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Definition of obstacle

obstacle

/ˈɑːb.stə.kəl/
ob · sta · cle
Plural:obstacles
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obstacle Lexical Profile

obstacle Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A thing, condition, or circumstance that blocks one's way or prevents or hinders progress toward a goal.

Example

"A lack of adequate funding proved to be the biggest obstacle to completing the community library project on schedule."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

obsolescent
obsolete
obsoleteness
obstacle
obstetrician
obstetrics
obstinacy

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the 14th century from Old French 'obstacle', derived from Latin 'obstaculum' ('a hindrance, impediment'), from 'obstare' ('to stand before, stand in the way of'), combining 'ob-' ('against') and 'stare' ('to stand').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Obstacle. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/obstacle
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