Dictionary definitions
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obstruction
From The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:
Obstruction \Ob*struc"tion\, n. [L. obstructio.]
1. The act of obstructing, or state of being obstructed.
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2. That which obstructs or impedes; an obstacle; an
impediment; a hindrance.
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A popular assembly free from obstruction. --Swift.
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3. The condition of having the natural powers obstructed in
their usual course; the arrest of the vital functions;
death. [Poetic]
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To die, and go we know not where,
To lie in cold obstruction, and to rot. --Shak.
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Syn: Obstacle; bar; barrier; impediment; clog; check;
hindrance.
Usage: 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.
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Disparity in age seems a greater obstacle to an
intimate friendship than inequality of fortune.
--Collier.
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The king expected to meet with all the
obstructions and difficulties his enraged
enemies could lay in his way. --Clarendon.
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