2 entries under this word
n. [From Lat. obstringere, obstrictum, to bind to or about, from prefix ob and stringere, to bind tight.] The state of being constrained or obliged; that which constrains or obliges; obligation; bond. [Rare.] Milton.
n. [Lat. obstructio, Fr. obstruction, Sp. obstruccion, It. ostruzione.]
Sense 1. The act of obstructing, or the state of being obstructed.
Sense 2. That which obstructs or impedes; obstacle; impediment; hindrance.
Sense 3. The condition of having the natural powers obstructed or hindered from their usual course; death. [Obs.]
To die, and go we know not where, To be in cold obstruction, and to rot. Shak.
Synonyms—Obstacle; bar; barrier; impediment; clog; check; hindrance; embarrassment. — OBSTRUCTIVE, OBSTACLE. Obstacle is stronger than obstruction; the latter serves to impede or hinder; the former acts with direct resistance. We remove obstructions; we surmount obstacles. “Disparity in age seems a greater obstacle to an intimate friendship than inequality of fortune.” Collier. “Here the king met with all the obstructions and difficulties his enraged enemies could lay in his way.” Clarendon.