an object like a fence that prevents people from moving forward from one place to another

a gate at a car park or railway station that controls when you may go through by being raised or lowered

Scan your ticket at the barrier and it will automatically lift.

There was a slow trickle of people through the barriers.

She got her luggage stuck in the automatic barrier.

a problem, rule or situation that prevents somebody from doing something, or that makes something impossible

the removal of trade barriers

the language barrier

Lack of confidence is a psychological barrier to success.

The old laws created barriers to free trade.

The country has removed barriers against imports.

something that exists between one thing or person and another and keeps them separate

The Yangtze River is a natural barrier to the north-east.

There was no real barrier between reality and fantasy in his mind.

The cream acts as a protective barrier against sun damage.

a particular amount, level or number that it is difficult to get past

the first player whose earnings passed the $10 million barrier

LEARNit Dictionary