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

Castillero and Martinsen were both also convicted of conspiracy to obstruct justice and obstruction charges.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 21, 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

Then they look around the patio and yard area, apparently for something to obstruct the camera, and settle on some greenery that they position in front of the lens.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 11, 2026

But again he didn’t comply, evidently determined to extort money and obstruct justice.

From "Killers of the Flower Moon" by David Grann

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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