barrier
n. · v.-
1 physical obstruction (n.) B1 Intermediatea physical object like a fence or wall that stops people or vehicles from passing.
a physical structure or object that prevents movement or separates two areas.
ExampleThe police put up a metal barrier to keep the crowd away from the stage.
ExampleConcrete barriers were installed along the highway to prevent vehicles from crossing into the path of oncoming traffic during the construction phase.
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2 abstract obstacle (n.) B2 Upper Intermediatea rule, situation, or problem that prevents someone from doing something or succeeding.
an abstract circumstance or obstacle that impedes progress, communication, or social integration.
ExampleThe high cost of university can be a major barrier for many students.
ExampleLanguage barriers often hinder effective collaboration between international teams, even when all members share a common technical background.
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3 biological membrane (n.) C1 Advanced Technical Medicinea layer in the body that lets some things in but keeps harmful things out.
a physiological structure, such as the blood-brain barrier, that regulates the passage of substances between different compartments of the body.
ExampleThe skin acts as a natural barrier against germs and infections.
ExampleThe blood-brain barrier is highly selective, protecting the central nervous system from potentially neurotoxic substances circulating in the blood.
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4 to block (v.) C1 Advanced Formalto close off or block a place using a barrier.
to obstruct or enclose a space by means of a physical barrier. Transitive use is less common than the noun form.
ExampleWorkers began to barrier the construction site to keep the public safe.
ExampleThe authorities decided to barrier the entrance to the cave after several hikers became lost in the unmapped tunnels.
From Middle English barryer, barrere, barryȝer, from Old French barriere (compare French barrière), from Old French barre (“bar”).