hurdle

An artificial barrier, variously constructed, over which athletes or horses jump in a race.

A perceived obstacle.

A movable frame of wattled twigs, osiers, or withes and stakes, or sometimes of iron, used for enclosing land, for folding sheep and cattle, for gates, etc.; also, in fortification, used as revetments, and for other purposes.

A sled or crate on which criminals were formerly drawn to the place of execution.