Obstruction refers to the act of blocking or hindering progress or movement. This can occur in various contexts, such as in physical spaces where objects may block pathways, or in legal situations where actions are taken to impede investigations or proceedings. In a medical context, obstruction can describe a blockage in the body, such as in the digestive system, where food or waste cannot pass through. This can lead to serious health issues and often requires medical intervention to resolve the blockage.