obstacle
Meaning
something that blocks your way so that movement or progress is prevented or made more difficult
an object that you have to get over, go around, or remove in a race or competition
Structure
Usage
The fallen tree was a major obstacle on the road.
Lack of funding is the biggest obstacle to the project's success.
The course is designed to test runners with various obstacles like walls and water pits.
Etymology
The word 'obstacle' entered English in the 14th century from Old French 'obstacle', which itself came from Latin 'obstaculum', meaning "a hindrance". This Latin noun was formed from the verb 'obstare' (to stand against, to withstand), which is a compound of 'ob-' (against) and 'stare' (to stand). The core logic is vividly physical: something that "stands against" you, blocking your path. Over time, this concrete sense of a physical barrier broadened to include any abstract impediment to progress or action.
Analysis
'ob-' is a Latin prefix meaning "against, in the way of". 'stacle' is derived from the Latin root 'stare' (to stand), via the form 'staculum'.