obstruction

n. [ L. obstructio. ] 1. The act of obstructing, or state of being obstructed. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. That which obstructs or impedes; an obstacle; an impediment; a hindrance. [ 1913 Webster ]

A popular assembly free from obstruction. Swift. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. The condition of having the natural powers obstructed in their usual course; the arrest of the vital functions; death. [ Poetic ] [ 1913 Webster ]

To die, and go we know not where,
To lie in cold obstruction, and to rot. Shak. [ 1913 Webster ]

Syn. -- Obstacle; bar; barrier; impediment; clog; check; hindrance. -- Obstruction, Obstacle. The difference between these words is that indicated by their etymology; an obstacle is something standing in the way; an obstruction is something put in the way. Obstacle implies more fixedness and is the stronger word. We remove obstructions; we surmount obstacles. [ 1913 Webster ]

Disparity in age seems a greater obstacle to an intimate friendship than inequality of fortune. Collier. [ 1913 Webster ]

The king expected to meet with all the obstructions and difficulties his enraged enemies could lay in his way. Clarendon. [ 1913 Webster ]

n. The act or the policy of obstructing progress. Lond. Lit. World. [ 1913 Webster ]