əbzˈtrəkt, äb-, -bˈst- verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
Etymology: Latin obstructus, past participle of obstruere to build against, block up, from ob- to, against + struere to pile up, build — more at ob- , structure
transitive verb
1. : to block up : stop up or close up : place an obstacle in or fill with obstacles or impediments to passing
traffic obstructing the street
veins obstructed by clots
2. : to be or come in the way of : hinder from passing, action, or operation : impede , retard
unwise rules obstruct legislation
constant interruptions obstruct our progress
3. : to cut off from sight : shut out
the high wall obstructed the view
intransitive verb
: to place obstacles in the way : impede
Synonyms: see hinder