Obstacle — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms

noun /ˈäb-sti-kəl/ ob·sta·cle

Meaning & Definition of Obstacle

Obstacle (noun)

  1. something that impedes progress or achievement

Obstacle (noun) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms

  1. something that makes movement or progress difficult

    "stumbling on all the obstacles along the path"

    similar: balk, bar, block, chain, clog, cramp, crimp, deterrent, drag, embarrassment, encumbrance, fetter, handicap, hindrance, holdback, hurdle, impediment, inhibition, interference, let, manacle, obstruction, shackles, stop, stumbling block, trammel
    related: catch, hitch, rub, snag, barrier, blockade, blockage, brick wall, stone wall, arrest, bit, brake, check, constraint, curb, hobble, rein, restraint, embargo, stoppage, delay, holdup, stall, burden, cumber, load, danger, hazard, peril, reef, adversity, difficulty, disadvantage, drawback, hardship
    near: catalyst, goad, impetus, incentive, spur, stimulant, stimulus, advantage, break, edge, aid, assistance, benefit, boost, handmaiden, help

Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for Obstacle

The most common words with a similar meaning to Obstacle:

balk, bar, block, chain, clog, cramp, crimp, deterrent, drag, embarrassment, encumbrance, fetter, handicap, hindrance, holdback, hurdle, impediment, inhibition, interference, let, manacle, obstruction, shackles, stop, stumbling block, trammel

Related Words for Obstacle

catch, hitch, rub, snag, barrier, blockade, blockage, brick wall, stone wall, arrest, bit, brake, check, constraint, curb, hobble, rein, restraint, embargo, stoppage, delay, holdup, stall, burden, cumber, load, danger, hazard, peril, reef

Near Antonyms of Obstacle

catalyst, goad, impetus, incentive, spur, stimulant, stimulus, advantage, break, edge, aid, assistance, benefit, boost, handmaiden, help

Origin & Etymology of Obstacle

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin obstaculum, from obstare to stand in front of, from ob- in the way + stare to stand ob-, stand

First known use: 14th century

Vocabulary Lists & Topics for Obstacle

Words & Phrases Containing Obstacle

obstacle course, obstacle race

Frequently Asked Questions about Obstacle

What does "Obstacle" mean?

"Obstacle" means something that impedes progress or achievement. As a noun, it is defined as: something that impedes progress or achievement.

What is another word for "Obstacle"?

Other words for "Obstacle" include balk, bar, block, chain, clog, cramp, crimp and deterrent. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "Obstacle" you intend.

What are different ways to say "Obstacle"?

There are 61 words and phrases with a similar meaning to "Obstacle". Common alternatives include balk, bar, block, chain, clog, cramp, crimp, deterrent, drag and embarrassment.

How do you use "Obstacle" in a sentence?

Examples of "Obstacle" in a sentence: "stumbling on all the obstacles along the path".

Is "Obstacle" a noun, verb, or adjective?

"Obstacle" is a noun.

Is "Obstacle" useful for IELTS, TOEFL, and other English exams?

As a B2-level word, "Obstacle" is typical of Cambridge B2 First (FCE), IELTS band 5.5–6.5, TOEFL iBT 72–94, PTE Academic 59–75, TOEIC Listening & Reading 785+.

How do you pronounce "Obstacle"?

"Obstacle" is pronounced /ˈäb-sti-kəl/ and divided into syllables as ob·sta·cle.

What is the origin of the word "Obstacle"?

"Obstacle" comes from Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin obstaculum, from obstare to stand in front of, from ob- in the way + stare to stand ob-, stand. First known use: 14th century.