obstructs

Obstructs is the third-person singular present tense of the verb obstruct. It means to block or hinder the passage, progress, or functioning of something. The term is used across many domains to describe a barrier or impediment.

Etymology: From Latin obstructus, formed from ob- meaning toward or against and arcere meaning to shut in; entered English via Old French before modern usage.

Usage in law: In legal contexts, to obstruct can refer to actions that impede an official investigation, inquiry, or legal process. Obstruction of justice is a crime in many jurisdictions, defined by statutes that prohibit acts intended to interfere with the administration of law.

Usage in medicine: Medical discussions use obstruction to denote a blockage that prevents normal flow or passage, such as airway obstruction, intestinal obstruction, or biliary obstruction. Obstructions can be caused by physical blockages, swelling, or functional problems.

Usage in other fields: In engineering or environmental contexts, obstructions impede fluid flow or movement, including debris in pipes or vegetation in channels. In everyday language, obstructs can describe barriers to access, visibility, or understanding.

Linguistic notes: Obstructs is the verb form for singular third-person subjects (e.g., The fallen tree obstructs the road). Related forms include obstruct, obstructing, obstruction, and adjectives like obstructive. The term is often used metaphorically to describe hindrance beyond physical blockage.