barrier
n. countablen. something that stops you from moving forward or doing what you want. It can be a physical object like a fence or a social problem like a language gap.
n. a physical object that prevents movement or access, or a figurative obstacle that hinders progress or communication.
The police put up a barrier to block the road.
A lack of confidence can be a significant barrier to success when you are starting a new career.
The trade agreement aims to remove every regulatory barrier that currently prevents small businesses from exporting their goods to neighboring markets.
From Middle English barryer, barrere, barryȝer, from Old French barriere (compare French barrière), from Old French barre (“bar”).
Often used with the preposition 'to' when describing a figurative obstacle.