Block Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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block

[blɒk ]

Definitions

^{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.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
block	Use when referring to a solid piece of material, often rectangular, used in building or construction. The children used wooden blocks to build a tower The mason placed the concrete blocks to form the wall
chunk	Best for indicating a thick, solid piece of something, often irregular in shape. She cut a chunk of cheese for the platter A large chunk of ice broke off from the glacier
piece	General term used for any part of something, often referring to a smaller section of a whole. Could I have a piece of cake? She picked up the piece of broken glass
brick	Appropriate when talking about a small, rectangular block used in constructing buildings. The house was made entirely of red bricks He threw a brick through the window
slab	Commonly used to describe a large, flat, and thick piece of material, typically stone or concrete. The construction workers lifted the heavy slabs of concrete She placed a slab of marble on the countertop

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.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
block	Typically used to describe a physical object that stops movement or progress, often temporarily or partially. There's a block on the road because of construction. She put up emotional blocks after the breakup.
barrier	Used to describe a physical or metaphorical divider that prevents or restricts entry or progress. The language barrier made communication difficult. They set up barriers to control the crowd.
obstacle	Generally refers to something that blocks one's path or makes it difficult to achieve a goal, often used in both literal and figurative contexts. She faced many obstacles in her journey to success. The fallen tree was an obstacle in the road.
hindrance	Usually refers to something that makes progress or achievement difficult without completely stopping it. His lack of experience was a hindrance to getting the job. The constant interruptions were a hindrance to her work.
impediment	Often used in formal contexts to describe a physical or figurative obstruction that hinders progress. A speech impediment made it hard for him to communicate. Bureaucratic red tape can be a real impediment to progress.

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.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
block	Used when something is physically or figuratively preventing movement or progress. The road was blocked by fallen trees His negative comments blocked her creativity
obstruct	Involves blocking a path, view, or progress often with a negative connotation. A parked car obstructed the driveway Her refusal to cooperate obstructed the investigation
bar	Often implies a formal or strong prohibition. Can be used both literally and figuratively. They were barred from entering the building His past mistakes barred him from getting the job
hinder	Refers to creating difficulties that result in delays or obstruction of progress. The heavy rain hindered the construction work Her lack of confidence hindered her progress
impede	Used when progress or movement is slowed down or prevented, often in a formal context. The new regulations could impede economic growth His injury impeded his ability to run

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

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

The term is often used in discussions about mental blocks, where someone may have difficulty thinking or creating.
Techniques like brainstorming or mind mapping are used to overcome these mental blocks.
Professional athletes often talk about 'blocking out' distractions to maintain focus during competitions.

Technology

In computer science, 'block' refers to a unit of data storage or processing, such as in blockchain technology.
Video games use block mechanics for gameplay, where players can build or destroy environments using block-like elements.
In programming, block structures organize code, making it easier to read and execute.

Pop Culture

Blockbusters are films that generate huge box office revenues, illustrating the cultural impact of cinematic releases.
In online gaming, blocking an opponent's move can be a key strategy in competitive play.
The term 'block party' captures social gatherings where neighbors come together to celebrate, fostering community spirit.

Literature

Block narratives are used in literature to describe stories that are told through fragmented or non-linear sequences.
Authors sometimes refer to writer’s block, where they find it difficult to produce new work or ideas.
The concept of blocking in theater relates to the positioning of actors on stage, essential for directing performances.

Origin of 'block'

Main points about word origin

The word originates from Middle English 'bloc', meaning a 'piece of wood', highlighting its connection to solid objects.
In architecture, the term has been used since the 14th century to refer to chunks of stone or wood.
The shift in meaning to 'to obstruct' evolved in the 19th century, demonstrating the word's versatility.

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.

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.

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1771 western
1772 grain
1773 document
1774 block
1775 ships
1776 technique
1777 forty
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