Obstruction

Ob*struc"tion (?), n. [L. obstructio.]

1. The act of obstructing, or state of being obstructed.

2. That which obstructs or impedes; an obstacle; an impediment; a hindrance.

A popular assembly free from obstruction.

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

To die, and go we know not where,
To lie in cold obstruction, and to rot.

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.

Disparity in age seems a greater obstacle to an intimate friendship than inequality of fortune.

The king expected to meet with all the obstructions and difficulties his enraged enemies could lay in his way.