Dictionary entries for 'barrier'

Synonyms

bar·ri·er (băŕē-ər)

[Middle English barrer, from Old French barriere, from Vulgar Latin* barrāria, from * barra, bar.]

noun

A structure, such as a fence, built to bar passage.
Something immaterial that obstructs or impedes: Intolerance is a barrier to understanding. See synonyms at obstacle
Physiology A membrane, tissue, or mechanism that blocks the passage of certain substances.
Ecology A physical or biological factor that limits the migration, interbreeding, or free movement of individuals or populations.
A boundary or limit.
Something that separates or holds apart.
A movable gate that keeps racehorses in line before the start of a race.
The palisades or fences enclosing the lists of a medieval tournament. Often used in the plural.
Geology An ice barrier.