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