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Definition of obstruct

obstruct

/əbˈstrʌkt/
ob · struct
Adverb:obstructively
•
Adjective:obstructive
•
Past Simple:obstructed
•
Past Participle:obstructed
•
Present Participle:obstructing
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obstruct Lexical Profile

obstruct Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To block or close up a passage, road, or opening with an obstacle so as to prevent movement or flow.

Example

"Fallen branches continued to obstruct the narrow mountain trail after the storm."

2

To deliberately hinder, delay, or interfere with the progress of an activity, process, or legal investigation.

Example

"Any attempt to obstruct the official audit will result in strict disciplinary action."

3

To cut off from sight or prevent a clear view of something.

Example

"The newly constructed high-rise will obstruct our view of the harbor."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for obstruct
Antonyms
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• Rhymes for obstruct

• Nearby Words

obstinacy
obstinate
obstinately
obstruct
obstruction
obstructionism
obstructionist

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the early 17th century from Latin obstructus, the past participle of obstruere ('to build against, block up, or impede'), formed from ob- ('against') and struere ('to pile up or build').

Cite this Entry

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