ob·vi·ous (ŏbʹvē-əs)adj. 1. Easily perceived or understood; quite apparent. See Synonyms at apparent. 2. Easily seen through because of a lack of subtlety; transparent: an obvious political ploy. 3.Archaic. Standing in the way or in front. [From Latin obvius, from obviam, in the way, within reach : ob-, against; see ob- + viam, accusative sing. of via, way; See wegh- in Indo-European Roots.] obʹvi·ous·ly adv.obʹvi·ous·ness n.