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Definition of obstructionism

obstructionism

/əbˈstrʌk.ʃən.ɪ.zəm/
ob · struc · tion · ism
Adjective:obstructionist
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obstructionism Lexical Profile

obstructionism Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The practice of deliberately impeding, delaying, or preventing the progress of a process, especially the passage of legislation or the conduct of official business.

Example

"The prime minister accused the opposition party of engaging in relentless obstructionism to stall the budget vote."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for obstructionism

• Nearby Words

obstinately
obstruct
obstruction
obstructionism
obstructionist
obstructive
obstructively

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the mid-19th century from 'obstruction' plus the suffix '-ism', deriving ultimately from the Latin 'obstruere', meaning 'to build against' or 'to block up'.

Cite this Entry

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