American Dictionary of the English Language

OBSTRUC'TION, noun [Latin obstructio.]

1. The act of obstructing.

2. Obstacle; impediment; any thing that stops or closes a way or channel. Bars of sand at the mouths of rivers are often obstructions to navigation.

3. That which impedes progress; hinderance. disunion and party spirit are often obstructions to legislative measures and to public prosperity.

4. A heap. [Not proper.]