obstruent Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a consonant that is produced with a partial or complete blockage of the airflow from the lungs through the nose or mouth

WordNet

Ob"stru*ent adjective
Etymology
L. obstruens, p.pr. of obstruere. See Obstruct.
Definitions
  1. Causing obstruction; blocking up; hindering; as, an obstruent medicine. Johnson.
Ob"stru*ent noun
Definitions
  1. Anything that obstructs or closes a passage; esp., that which obstructs natural passages in the body; as, a medicine which acts as an obstruent.

Webster 1913