barrier

bar-ri-er · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A fence or obstacle that prevents movement or access.

  2. 2.

    Something that prevents progress, communication, or achievement.

  3. 3.

    A boundary or limit.

Forms

plural: barriers

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    language barrier — Difficulty communicating due to different languages.
  • •
    sound barrier — The point at which an object moves faster than sound.
  • •
    trade barrier — A restriction on international trade.
  • •
    barrier reef — A coral reef parallel to a shore.
  • •
    break down barriers — Remove obstacles to progress.

Related words

Antonyms: opening, passage
See also: barriers, fence, obstacle
Synonyms: fence, obstacle, obstruction, wall

Etymology

From Old French barriere, from barre ("bar").