Synonyms for

Blockade

Verb / ˌblɑ:ˈkeɪd / Another word for blockade — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a barrier made of ships, troops, or vehicles that prevents people or goods from entering or leaving an area

Synonyms & similar words

blockoff encirclement stop stymy stymie embarrass barricade sealoff hinder block blockup bar obstruct barrier obstruction barricade roadblock embargo sanction prohibition ban restriction interdiction curb hindrance impediment obstacle stoppage seal sealing enclosure fence wall

Synonyms by register

Formal

interdiction obstruction embargo containment

Informal

hold-up stoppage jam bottleneck

Literary

barricade encirclement siege

Antonyms

opening access passage release freeing unblocking allowance

Common collocations

  • impose a blockade
  • naval blockade
  • break the blockade
  • lift the blockade
  • maintain a blockade
  • economic blockade
  • air blockade

Word family

noun blockade
verb blockade
adjective blockaded

Usage note

Primarily used in a military or political context to describe the act of preventing goods or people from entering or leaving an area. Can also be used figuratively for any obstruction.

Example sentences

  1. The blockade prevented ships from entering the harbor.
  2. The protestors set up a blockade in the street.
  3. The government imposed a blockade on trade with that country.
  4. The castle had a stone blockade to protect it from invaders.
  5. The police put a blockade on the road after the accident.

Quotes

  • "The strongest steel is forged by the fires of the blockade."
  • "A blockade is not a solution; it is a provocation."
  • "A blockade is a way of pressing a point without war."

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