WordWeight : Weighing the Words

Pronunciation : Ob*struct"
Part of Speech : v.
Etymology : [L. obstructus, p.p. of obstruere to build up before or against, to obstruct; ob (see Ob-) + struere to pile up. See Structure.]
Definition : 1. To block up; to stop up or close, as a way or passage; to place an obstacle in, or fill with obstacles or impediments that prevent or hinder passing; as, to obstruct a street; to obstruct the channels of the body. 'T is the obstructed paths of sound shall clear. Pope.

2. To be, or come, in the way of; to hinder from passing; to stop; to impede; to retard; as, the bar in the harbor obstructs the passage of ships; clouds obstruct the light of the sun; unwise rules obstruct legislation. "Th' impatience of obstructed love." Johnson.

Syn. -- To bar; barricade; stop; arrest; check; interrupt; clog; choke; impede; retard; embarrass; oppose.

t. [imp. & p. p. Obstructed; p. pr. & vb. n. Obstructing.]
Source : Webster's Unabridged Dictionary, 1913