obstruct Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. verb hinder or prevent the progress or accomplishment of
    hinder; stymie; blockade; embarrass; stymy; block.
    • His brother blocked him at every turn
  2. verb block passage through
    close up; obturate; jam; impede; occlude; block.
    • obstruct the path
  3. verb shut out from view or get in the way so as to hide from sight
    block.
    • The thick curtain blocked the action on the stage
    • The trees obstruct my view of the mountains

WordNet

Ob*struct" transitive verb
Etymology
L. obstructus, p.p. of obstruere to build up before or against, to obstruct; ob (see Ob-) + struere to pile up. See Structure.
Wordforms
imperfect & past participle Obstructed; present participle & verbal noun Obstructing
Definitions
  1. To block up; to stop up or close, as a way or passage; to place an obstacle in, or fill with obstacles or impediments that prevent or hinder passing; as, to obstruct a street; to obstruct the channels of the body.
    'T is the obstructed paths of sound shall clear. Pope.
  2. To be, or come, in the way of; to hinder from passing; to stop; to impede; to retard; as, the bar in the harbor obstructs the passage of ships; clouds obstruct the light of the sun; unwise rules obstruct legislation. "Th' impatience of obstructed love." Johnson. Syn. -- To bar; barricade; stop; arrest; check; interrupt; clog; choke; impede; retard; embarrass; oppose.

Webster 1913