Block: meaning, definitions and examples

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block

 

[ blɒk ]

Noun / Verb
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Noun

building

A large solid piece of hard material, especially rock, stone, or wood, typically with flat surfaces on each side.

Synonyms

brick, chunk, piece, slab

Examples of usage

  • He used a block of wood to stop the door from closing.
  • The children built a tower with blocks.
  • The wall was made of concrete blocks.
  • The artist carved a sculpture out of a block of marble.
  • She stumbled over a block of ice on the sidewalk.
Context #2 | Noun

obstruction

An obstacle or hindrance.

Synonyms

barrier, hindrance, impediment, obstacle

Examples of usage

  • There was a block in the road causing traffic.
  • The writer experienced a mental block and couldn't continue.
  • She felt like there was a block preventing her from moving forward.
Context #3 | Verb

prevent movement

To prevent movement or action by creating an obstacle.

Synonyms

bar, hinder, impede, obstruct

Examples of usage

  • She blocked the entrance with a large rock.
  • The hacker blocked access to the website.
  • The police blocked off the street for the parade.

Translations

Translations of the word "block" in other languages:

🇵🇹 bloco

🇮🇳 ब्लॉक

🇩🇪 Block

🇮🇩 blok

🇺🇦 блок

🇵🇱 blok

🇯🇵 ブロック

🇫🇷 bloc

🇪🇸 bloque

🇹🇷 blok

🇰🇷 블록

🇸🇦 كتلة

🇨🇿 blok

🇸🇰 blok

🇨🇳 

🇸🇮 blok

🇮🇸 blokk

🇰🇿 блок

🇬🇪 ბლოკი

🇦🇿 blok

🇲🇽 bloque

Etymology

The word 'block' originated from Middle English 'blok', which in turn came from Old French 'bloc' and earlier from Dutch 'blok'. It has been used in various contexts throughout history, evolving from meanings related to a solid piece of material to obstacles or hindrances. The versatility of 'block' in both noun and verb forms has made it a common term in everyday language.

See also: blockade, blockage, blockbuster, blocked, blocker, blockhead, blocking, blocklist, blocks, blocky, unblock, unblocked.

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,774, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.