obstacle

Meaning

Something that impedes, stands in the way of, or holds up progress, either physically or figuratively

Synonyms

hindrance

impediment

obstruction

barrier

Hindrance

difficulty

hurdle

bar

barricade

trouble

block

handicap

drawback

clog

problem

blockade

hitch

interference

stumbling block

interruption

encumbrance

opposition

wall

snag

blockage

disturbance

hinderance

break down

brake

hinder

deterrent

delay

restriction

balk

retardation

misfortune

let

obstructive

roadblock

fence

embarrassment

holdback

drag

setback

resistance

restraint

dissent

disincentive

dilemma

dike

Translations

obstacle

Hindernis

ostacolo

εμπόδιο

empêchement

obstáculo

obstáculo

belemmering

obstacle

حاجز

engel

impedimento

impedimento

opstructie

Pronounced as (IPA)

/ˈɒbstəkəl/

Etymology

Inherited from Middle English: obstacle

In summary

From Middle English obstacle, from Old French obstacle, from Latin obstāculum.