Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for obstruct. Search instead for obstruc.
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.

But because he allegedly tried to obstruct the investigation, he faces a separate set of charges on much firmer legal ground.

From Slate • Mar. 11, 2026

The person then looks around the patio and yard area apparently for something to obstruct the camera and eventually settling on some greenery found in the yard.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 10, 2026

MSF slammed the move, which takes effect on March 1, as a "pretext" to obstruct aid.

From Barron's • Feb. 2, 2026

"No responsible government anywhere in the world can allow people to live directly under high-tension cables or obstruct vital waterways," the governor's special adviser on urban development, Olajide Abiodun Babatunde, said in a statement.

From BBC • Feb. 2, 2026

The High Blade did not want anything to obstruct his view—and anyone stupid enough to trip over the edge would deserve the time and cost of revival.

From "Scythe" by Neal Shusterman

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.