obstruction

noun

Synonyms of obstruction
1
a
: the state of being obstructed
especially : a condition of being clogged or blocked
an intestinal obstruction
She died from an obstruction of the airway.
b
: an act of obstructing
Passage of the law was delayed by the congressman's obstruction.
2
: something that obstructs
removing obstructions that block the path
a view without obstruction

Examples of obstruction in a Sentence

They are removing trees and other obstructions from the path. cases of intestinal obstruction in children She died from an obstruction of the airway. He is on trial for the obstruction of a criminal investigation.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Federal indictment included multiple allegations In May, federal prosecutors charged both companies, along with the 47-year-old man who was the Dali's superintendent, with conspiracy, obstruction, and making false statement to investigators. Bryan Lynn, CBS News, 31 July 2026 What the operating-model review adds is subtler than obstruction. Vibhas Ratanjee, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026 Fauci refused to answer questions at the hearing based on his Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination, and Republicans threatened to charge him with obstruction. Bart Jansen, USA Today, 29 July 2026 While Clinton was impeached by the house, he was acquitted of perjury and obstruction of justice charges. Tracy Wright, FOXNews.com, 28 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for obstruction

Word History

First Known Use

1533, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of obstruction was in 1533

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Obstruction.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/obstruction. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

Kids Definition

obstruction

noun
1
: an act of obstructing : the state of being obstructed
2
: something that gets in the way : obstacle

Medical Definition

1
a
: an act of obstructing
b
: a condition of being clogged or blocked
intestinal obstruction
2
: something that obstructs
dislodge an airway obstruction

More from Merriam-Webster on obstruction

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