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Definition of obstructionist

obstructionist

/əbˈstrʌk.ʃən.ɪst/
ob · struc · tion · ist
Plural:obstructionists
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obstructionist Lexical Profile

obstructionist Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Characterized by or engaging in the deliberate delay, hindrance, or blocking of progress, particularly in legislative or diplomatic processes.

Example

"The committee chair criticized the minority party's obstructionist tactics during the budget negotiations."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• noun

1

A person who intentionally delays, impedes, or blocks progress, especially a politician who hinders the passage of legislation through procedural delays.

Example

"Critics labeled the senator an obstructionist after he used a filibuster to stall the bipartisan bill."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for obstructionist

• Nearby Words

obstruct
obstruction
obstructionism
obstructionist
obstructive
obstructively
obstructiveness

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the mid-19th century from 'obstruction' (from Latin 'obstructio', meaning a barrier or hindrance) combined with the agent suffix '-ist', originally referring to politicians who deliberately delayed legislative proceedings.

Cite this Entry

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