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Blockaded Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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blockaded

[bləˈkeɪd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

military action

To blockade means to prevent access to or from a place, typically in a military context where forces surround a location to hinder the movement of people or goods. This tactic is often used to cut off supplies or reinforcements to an enemy.

Synonyms

besiege, cut off, surround.

Examples of usage

  • The navy blockaded the enemy port.
  • They attempted to blockade trade routes.
  • The city was blockaded for several months.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The act of blockading dates back to ancient warfare, where navies would prevent enemy ships from entering or leaving ports.
  • During the American Civil War, the Union used blockades to cut off supplies to the Confederacy, which was a crucial strategy.
  • In World War II, the Berlin Blockade aimed to restrict the flow of resources into West Berlin, leading to significant international tensions.

International Relations

  • Blockades can be used as a means of pressure in diplomacy, often impacting negotiations between countries.
  • The United Nations sometimes endorses blockades as a method to enforce peace agreements or sanctions.

Literature

  • Blockades often appear in literature as metaphors for isolation, such as in works where characters are cut off from the world due to war or conflict.
  • Classic novels like 'A Tale of Two Cities' depict blockades as central elements to the story's tension and conflict.

Psychology

  • The concept of being 'blockaded' can relate to feelings of being trapped or restricted in personal life, often discussed in psychology.
  • Imagining psychological blockades helps therapists address barriers in communication or emotional expression in clients.

Pop Culture

  • Blockades appear in many video games as challenges where players must navigate obstacles to reach their goals.
  • Movies often portray blockades as dramatic elements, depicting the struggles of characters trying to overcome or break free from confinement.

Origin of 'blockaded'

The term 'blockade' originates from the early 17th century, deriving from the French word 'bloquer' which means 'to block'. It was initially used to describe the act of closing off a port or area to prevent entry or exit. The word was first recorded in English in the context of naval warfare, where fleets would surround enemy positions to restrict movement and supplies. Over time, the usage of the term broadened to include land and air blockades as well. Blockades can be seen as a strategic military tactic that has been employed throughout history in various conflicts, aimed at weakening opponents by cutting off their resources, forcing surrender, or gaining negotiation advantages.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,562, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.