Obstacle/ˈɑːbstəkl/ Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Mental Challenges Obstacles aren't always physical; they can be doubts or fears in your mind. His biggest obstacle was his own lack of confidence. Pro Tip 2/3Figurative Use Obstacle can describe any difficulty, not just a physical object. Poverty is often an obstacle to higher education. Pro Tip 3/3Overcoming Obstacles To achieve a goal, you may need strategies to deal with obstacles. She overcame the obstacle of poor internet by working in the library.