barrier

noun bar·ri·er \ˈber-ē-ər, ˈba-rē-\

: something (such as a fence or natural obstacle) that prevents or blocks movement from one place to another

: a law, rule, problem, etc., that makes something difficult or impossible

: something that makes it difficult for people to understand each other

Full Definition of BARRIER

a : something material that blocks or is intended to block passage <highway barriers> <a barrier contraceptive>

b : a natural formation or structure that prevents or hinders movement or action <geographic barriers to species dissemination> <barrier beaches> <drugs that cross the placental barrier>

plural often capitalized : a medieval war game in which combatants fight on foot with a fence or railing between them

: something immaterial that impedes or separates : obstacle <behavioral barriers> <trade barriers>

See barrier defined for English-language learners

See barrier defined for kids

Origin of BARRIER

Middle English barrere, from Anglo-French, from barre bar

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to BARRIER

Synonyms: barricade, fence, hedge, wall

Rhymes with BARRIER

harrier

BARRIER Defined for Kids

barrier

noun bar·ri·er \ˈber-ē-ər\

Definition of BARRIER for Kids

: something (as a fence) that blocks the way

: something that keeps apart or makes progress difficult <a language barrier>

Medical Dictionary

barrier

noun bar·ri·er \ˈbar-ē-ər\

Medical Definition of BARRIER

: a material object or set of objects that separates, demarcates, or serves as a barricade—see blood-brain barrier, placental barrier

: a factor that tends to restrict the free movement, mingling, or interbreeding of individuals or populations <behavioral and geographic barriers to hybridization>