Barricade: meaning, definitions and examples

A makeshift or temporary barrier typically used to block off access or protect from danger. Often seen during protests or emergency situations.

• During the protest, the activists built a barricade out of old furniture to block the road
• Firefighters put up a barricade to keep people away from the burning building

Used primarily in a military or political context to describe an effort to prevent goods or people from entering or leaving a place, usually by force.

• The naval blockade stopped all trade ships from reaching the enemy's harbor
• The city was under blockade for several months, leading to shortages of essential supplies

Anything that makes it difficult to achieve something or move forward. Can be literal, like an object blocking the way, or figurative, like a personal challenge.

• The fallen tree was a major obstacle on the hiking trail
• Overcoming this obstacle will require a lot of hard work and determination

A general term for anything that prevents movement or access. Can be physical, like a fence, or metaphorical, like a language barrier.

• The language barrier made it difficult for the tourists to communicate with the locals
• They installed a barrier to prevent cars from entering the park

Use 'barricade' when talking about setting up a physical barrier to prevent entry or passage, often in times of conflict or danger.

• The protesters built a barricade to stop the police from advancing.
• We had to barricade the doors to protect ourselves from the storm.

'Block' is used when referring to any action or object that obstructs or stops movement, it can also have negative connotations if it implies hindering progress or development.

• A fallen tree blocked the road after the storm.
• He put his hand up to block the shot.
• She was frustrated because he kept blocking her plans.

The term 'bar' is suitable for denoting a long, rigid object used to block a passage or an impassable barrier; it can also refer to a legal profession or a place where alcoholic beverages are served.

• A metal bar was placed across the gate to keep it shut.
• The prisoner tried to break the bars of his cell.
• She passed the bar exam with flying colors.
• They decided to meet at the bar after work.

'Secure' is generally used when referring to making something safe, stable, or free from danger or risk.

• He taught her how to secure her bike to the rail.
• They secured all the windows before leaving for the trip.
• The measures were taken to secure the area from intruders.