obstacle
/ˈɒbstəkəl/
noun
Origin
Latin
obstaculum — a hindrance, obstacle
Overview
Meaning Now
- A thing that blocks one's way or prevents or hinders progress.
- A physical object that stands in the way of movement.
Literal older meaning
Something that stands in the way
Language path
Latin → Old French → English
Earliest form
obstacle
Earliest period
14th century
Journey
The term stems from the Latin concept of standing in opposition. In a military context, 'obstacula' referred to fortifications or physical barriers placed against an advancing army.
Evolution
- Latin
obstaculum
“hindrance”
Derived from 'obstare'
- Old French
obstacle
“hindrance”
Direct borrowing from Latin
- Middle English
obstacle
“impediment”
Adopted into Middle English from French
Connections
Word parts
ob-
prefix
against
stare
root
to stand
-culum
suffix
instrument or means
Related across languages
French
hindrance
Spanish
obstáculo
hindrance
Explore next
Related to obstacle
External references use DefinedTerm semantics.