stymie (
http://definr.com/stymie)
n 1: a situation in golf where an opponent's ball blocks the line
between your ball and the hole
2: a thwarting and distressing situation
v : hinder or prevent the progress or accomplishment of; "His
brother blocked him at every turn" [syn:
obstruct,
blockade,
block,
hinder,
stymy,
embarrass]