BARRIER Synonyms: 55 Similar and Opposite Words

barrier

noun

ˈber-ē-ər

Definition of barrier

as in wall

a physical object that blocks the way there was a big barrier plastered with signs saying "Keep Out" around the trash compactor

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of barrier Many also experience spikes in cortisol, which can make hair and skin thinner, and impair the gut barrier. — Bella Webb, Vogue, 28 Aug. 2026 These are just a few of the financial barriers that deter applicants and lead as many as one-quarter of the nation’s aspiring physicians to reconsider enrollment or to switch to nonclinical career paths. — Marj Halperin, Chicago Tribune, 28 Aug. 2026 Most obvious, Black candidates for elite jobs, grants, and prizes, who had previously faced many barriers, were benefiting, in various institutions and workplaces, from a new kind of favoritism. — Charles Finch, The Atlantic, 28 Aug. 2026 The formula is designed to eliminate these cells and improve the skin barrier, leading to a healthier, smoother appearance in 12 weeks, according to the brand’s clinical studies. — Jacqueline Tempera, PEOPLE, 28 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for barrier

Recent Examples of Synonyms for barrier

Noun

At Sharma-Crawford’s office, his assistant posted three separate calendars to the office wall.

— Taylor O'Connor, Kansas City Star, 26 Aug. 2026
Security cameras on the Chinese side of the border captured people running from a wall of debris as floodwaters rushed through a border crossing, sweeping away vehicles and buildings.

— Anthony Thompson, USA Today, 26 Aug. 2026

Definition of wall

Noun

So far, fences have gone up and earthmovers are clearing the ground for the project.

— Drew Hawkins, NPR, 27 Aug. 2026
The city is also considering protections for the property’s view from Eagle Road, including restrictions on tall fences, dense tree lines and other structures that could obstruct the house.

— Noah Daly August 27, Idaho Statesman, 27 Aug. 2026

Definition of fence

Noun

After marching from Crocker Park in downtown Sacramento, the protest groups engaged in verbal and physical altercations across a barricade formed by law enforcement officers.

— Hannah Ruhoff, Sacbee.com, 27 Aug. 2026
In another affidavit, Ernani Bernardi, who represented Panorama City on the City Council, described how authorities had put up a barricade blocking an entrance to Blythe Street.

— Matthew Ormseth, Los Angeles Times, 26 Aug. 2026

Definition of barricade

Noun

Bond yields Persistent inflation, tariffs and whipsawing gas prices are not the only obstacles complicating the task for the Fed.

— Brian Cheung, NBC news, 28 Aug. 2026
The emotional incompatibility of self-care Applebaum said that even those who can overcome the practical obstacles often still struggle to take care of themselves.

— Elissa Strauss, CNN Money, 27 Aug. 2026