* Noun: This is the most common use. "Barriers" refers to something that blocks or prevents movement or progress.
* Example: "There were barriers to communication between the two groups."
* Verb: This is less common, but "barriers" can be used as a verb meaning to block or obstruct.
* Example: "The heavy rain barriered our view of the mountains."
Without more context, it's impossible to determine the specific part of speech.