obstruct implies interfering with something in motion or in progress by the sometimes intentional placing of obstacles in the way.

OBSTRUCT definition: to block or close up with an obstacle; make difficult to pass. See examples of obstruct used in a sentence.

to try to stop something from happening or developing: to obstruct a police investigation

obstruct (əbˈstrʌkt) vb (tr) 1. to block (a road, passageway, etc) with an obstacle 2. to make (progress or activity) difficult

Definition of obstruct verb in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

To obstruct progress or a process means to prevent it from happening properly. The authorities are obstructing a United Nations investigation. [VERB noun]

Jan 18, 2026 · To block or fill (a passage) with obstacles or an obstacle. See synonyms at block. To impede, retard, or interfere with; hinder. They obstructed my progress. To get in the way of so as to …

obstruct, v. meanings, etymology, pronunciation and more in the Oxford English Dictionary

OBSTRUCT meaning: 1 : to block (something, such as a pipe or street) so that things cannot move through easily; 2 : to slow or block the movement, progress, or action of (something or someone)

Obstruct means to block or hinder something or someone by placing obstacles in the way, making it difficult or impossible to proceed or carry out a task. It can also refer to interrupting or preventing the …