Both Uses of
obstruct
in
The Scarlet Letter
- If his notice was sought, an expression of courtesy and interest gleamed out upon his features, proving that there was light within him, and that it was only the outward medium of the intellectual lamp that obstructed the rays in their passage.†
Chpt Intr. *
- It was as if a window were thrown open, admitting a freer atmosphere into the close and stifled study, where his life was wasting itself away, amid lamp-light, or obstructed day-beams, and the musty fragrance, be it sensual or moral, that exhales from books.†
Chpt 9
Definition:
-
(obstruct) to block or hinderThe exact meaning of obstruct can depend upon its context. For example:
- "obstruct the path" -- block passage through
- "obstruct justice" -- hinder or prevent the progress or accomplishment of
- "obstruct her view" -- get in the way so as to hide from sight