Obstruct

/əbˈstrʌkt/

Meaning & Definition

verb
To block or impede the progress of something.
The fallen tree began to obstruct the road, making it impassable for vehicles.
To hinder or prevent someone from doing something.
They tried to obstruct the investigation by hiding evidence.
To create an obstacle or barrier in a passageway.
The construction work will obstruct the view of the lake from the main road.
To interfere with or prevent the operation of something.
The thick fog may obstruct our ability to see the runway while landing.

Etymology

From Latin obstructus, past participle of obstruere 'to block up, stop up'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

obstruct justice
to interfere with the legal process or investigation.
obstruct the view
to block someone from seeing something clearly.

Related Words

obstruction
The act of obstructing or the state of being obstructed.
obstructive
Causing or tending to obstruct.

Slang Meanings

To throw a monkey wrench in the works.
He really threw a monkey wrench in the project by not cooperating.
To block someone's hustle.
Don't block my hustle by making it hard to get things done.