Definitions

obstruct

[uhb-struhkt] / əbˈstrʌkt /

VERB

prevent, restrict

Synonyms

STRONGEST

block curb cut off hamper hinder impede inhibit interfere obscure retard stall stonewall stymie thwart

STRONG

arrest bar barricade check choke clog close congest crab fill frustrate hamstring hide interrupt mask occlude plug restrain sandbag shield stop stopper terminate throttle trammel

WEAK

dead-end drag one's feet foul up get in the way hang up hold up monkey with shut off slow down weigh down

Antonyms

STRONGEST

advance aid allow assist encourage facilitate forward further help permit promote push

STRONG

begin continue free lay bare let go liberate open release reveal start support unblock uncover unmask unplug unstop

WEAK

abet boost clear

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

If constructed, it will be topped with gilded bald eagles and an angelic Lady Liberty; its speckless white-marble columns will be wide enough to obstruct sight lines to the Lincoln Memorial.

From Slate • Jun. 2, 2026

Beijing will also scrutinize companies that fail to truthfully record the flow of rare-earth products and producers that refuse or obstruct government inspections, the ministry said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 29, 2026

"The defendant not only sought to obstruct the lawful execution of warrants by prosecutors and others," he said in his verdict.

From Barron's • Apr. 29, 2026

It is also an offence to disturb, damage or destroy a breeding site or resting place of an otter or obstruct their access, whether or not an otter is present.

From BBC • Apr. 18, 2026

Unlike the other continents, Antarctica is completely surrounded by ocean, and there is no significant land to obstruct the rushing waves.

From "Shipwreck at the Bottom of the World" by Jennifer Armstrong

Vocabulary lists containing obstruct

The Declaration of Independence

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List 1

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Essential Academic Vocabulary for High School Students, List 3

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