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Blockage Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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blockage

[ˈblɒkɪdʒ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

medical

A blockage is something that blocks a passage or opening, especially something that blocks the flow of fluids in a blood vessel or the intestines.

Synonyms

barrier, clog, obstruction.

Examples of usage

  • The patient was rushed to the hospital due to a blockage in his coronary artery.
  • The blockage in her intestines required immediate surgery to remove.
Context #2 | Noun

general

A blockage can also refer to an obstruction or obstacle in a general sense, hindering progress or movement.

Synonyms

hurdle, impediment, obstacle.

Examples of usage

  • There was a blockage on the highway due to an accident.
  • The blockage of bureaucracy delayed the project for months.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Medical

  • Blockages in blood vessels can lead to serious health issues, like heart attacks or strokes.
  • Digestive blockages happen when food or waste can't move through the intestines, often requiring medical attention.
  • Asthma can cause airway blockages, making it hard to breathe, which is why people use inhalers.

Infrastructure

  • Traffic blockages can lead to long delays, often caused by accidents or road construction.
  • Cities implement intelligent traffic systems to reduce blockages, using sensors to manage traffic flow more effectively.
  • Blockages in pipelines can cause water shortages, leading local governments to invest in regular maintenance.

Psychology

  • Mental blockages can occur during stressful times, making it difficult to think clearly or get tasks done.
  • Experiencing emotional blockages can prevent people from expressing their feelings, impacting relationships.
  • Therapists often work with individuals to identify and overcome blockages to improve mental health.

Environment

  • Blockages in rivers from debris can lead to flooding, impacting nearby communities.
  • Wildlife can suffer from habitat blockages, where roads and buildings prevent them from migrating safely.
  • Ecological blockages are when natural pathways, like rivers, are altered, affecting the local ecosystem.

Metaphorical Uses

  • People often refer to creativity blockages, where they struggle to come up with new ideas.
  • In business, a blockage can occur when communication breaks down, stalling projects and progress.
  • Life blockages are common when individuals feel stuck in their routines and seek change.

Origin of 'blockage'

The word 'blockage' originated from the verb 'block', which comes from Middle English 'blok', Old French 'bloquer', and ultimately from Late Latin 'blocca', meaning 'barrier'. The concept of blockage has been present throughout history in various contexts, from physical obstructions to metaphorical barriers.

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

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,131, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.