rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryobstructBlock or hinder
verb

obstruct

uhb-STRUKT/əbˈstrʌkt/

To block passage or hinder progress.

The fallen tree obstructs the narrow footpath and stops the walker.

A fallen tree lies across a narrow footpath, completely obstructing the route of a walker who has stopped immediately before it.
Etymology
obLatinin front of, in the way of
+structLatinpile, build

The pieces picture building or piling something in the way, creating a physical barrier. Obstruct extends that concrete blocking to anything that hinders an action, movement, or process.

In context

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groups of working men to obstruct the pathway upon which they take a fancy to Lounge without any definite object
GENTLEMEN’S BOOK OF ETIQUETTE. by CECIL B. HARTLEY.. Audiobook - full length, free

More examples

  • Please keep bags from obstructing the aisle.
  • The tall fence obstructs our view of the lake.
  • Their refusal to share records obstructed the investigation.

Forms

obstruct · obstructs · obstructed · obstructing

obstruction noun — Something that blocks passage or hinders progress.

obstructive adjective — Causing difficulty by blocking or hindering.

Similar words

block
Often suggests stopping passage completely rather than merely hindering.
hinder
Emphasizes making progress difficult, without necessarily blocking passage.
impede
Emphasizes slowing movement or progress rather than stopping it.