obstacle

ob-sta-cle · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A thing that blocks one's way or prevents or hinders progress.

  2. 2.

    A difficulty or problem that must be overcome.

Forms

plural: obstacles

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    obstacle course — a series of physical challenges to navigate
  • •
    overcome an obstacle — to successfully deal with a difficulty
  • •
    obstacle to progress — something that prevents advancement

Related words

Antonyms: advantage, aid, help
See also: barrier, challenge, hurdle
Synonyms: barrier, hindrance, hurdle, impediment

Etymology

From Old French obstacle, from Latin obstaculum ("hindrance"), from obstare ("to stand in the way"), from ob- ("against") + stare ("to stand").