What does obstacle mean?
An obstacle is anything that stands in the way of movement, action, or achievement. It may be a physical barrier, such as a blocked road, or a practical and personal difficulty, such as limited money, time, or confidence. The word often suggests a problem that requires effort, planning, or persistence to overcome, making it especially useful in discussions of projects, education, travel, sport, and personal development. As a verb, “to obstruct” is closely related and means to hinder or prevent progress, although the noun is more common in everyday use. Together, these meanings reflect the central idea of resistance: an obstacle prevents a person or thing from moving forward freely. The word derives from a Latin expression meaning “to stand against,” so its imagery is that of something directly placed in a path.
Something that prevents or hinders movement, progress, or achievement.
"The team worked together to overcome every obstacle."
A countable noun commonly used with verbs such as “face” and “overcome.”
To prevent or hinder progress, movement, or achievement.
"Bad weather obstructed the rescue operation."
More formal in tone than the noun, but common in journalism, academic writing, and professional communication.
The standard plural of the countable noun.
"They had to overcome several obstacles before reaching the final."
An obstacle literally means something that stands in your way: the word comes from Latin for “to stand against.”
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does obstacle come from?
The English noun entered through French from the Latin word obstaculum, meaning an obstruction or hindrance. Its ultimate roots are the Latin prefix ob-, meaning “against,” and stare, meaning “to stand.” The related English words obstruct, obstruction, and obstinate preserve the same idea of standing against or resisting. Over time, obstacle came to refer both to a physical impediment and to a nonmaterial difficulty that prevents progress.
Related word forms
How obstacle is actually used
The noun is common in general, professional, and academic contexts. “Overcome” and “face” are especially frequent collocations. The verb is somewhat more formal than the noun, though it is used regularly in journalism and professional writing.