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Blocker Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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blocker

[ˈblɒkər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

Internet security

A program or device that prevents unauthorized access to a computer network.

Synonyms

barrier, filter, firewall.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
blocker

Used when something or someone is preventing progress or causing a delay. Common in project management and software development.

  • The lack of resources is a major blocker for the project.
  • We need to resolve this blocker before we can move forward.
firewall

Specifically relates to computer and network security, meant to prevent unauthorized access.

  • The company's firewall blocked the suspicious activity.
  • Make sure your firewall is active to protect your system.
filter

Used when needing to sort or screen out specific items or information, often in data processing or online settings.

  • You can use the filter feature to find emails from a specific sender.
  • Apply this filter to remove spam messages.
barrier

Refers to a physical or metaphorical obstruction that makes it difficult to move forward or achieve something.

  • Language can be a barrier to effective communication.
  • The team had to find a way to overcome the financial barrier.

Examples of usage

  • The firewall acts as a blocker, filtering out malicious traffic.
  • Make sure to enable the pop-up blocker on your web browser.
Context #2 | Noun

Sports

A player who obstructs an opponent from making a play, particularly in basketball or volleyball.

Synonyms

defender, obstructor, stopper.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
blocker

Often used in sports or project management to describe someone or something that is preventing progress or movement.

  • The large defender acted as a blocker, preventing the opposing team from scoring.
  • We need to identify any blockers that might slow down our project.
defender

Typically used in sports, military contexts, or general situations where someone is protecting or guarding against an attack.

  • The defender managed to stop the ball just in time.
  • A good defender always stays close to their opponent.
obstructor

Often used to describe someone or something that is intentionally hindering or delaying progress, usually with a somewhat negative connotation.

  • The obstruction in the road caused a huge traffic jam.
  • As an obstructor, he was always finding ways to delay the project.
stopper

Can refer to someone or something that stops progress or closes an opening; commonly used in everyday situations and sports.

  • She used a cork as a stopper for the wine bottle.
  • The defender acted as a stopper, preventing any goals from being scored.

Examples of usage

  • The basketball blocker made a crucial defensive move.
  • She is known as a strong blocker on the volleyball team.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Sports

  • In football, blockers are crucial on the offensive line, protecting the quarterback and creating paths for running plays.
  • In basketball, players use blocking techniques to prevent opponents from scoring, showcasing defensive skills.
  • The strategic role of blockers in sports emphasizes teamwork and the importance of protecting what matters.

Technology

  • In the digital world, 'ad blockers' prevent unwanted advertisements on websites, enhancing user experience.
  • Blocking software is used in cybersecurity to stop harmful content and cyber attacks.
  • Firewalls act as blockers by controlling incoming and outgoing network traffic based on security rules.

Psychology

  • In cognitive behavioral therapy, mental 'blockers' can be harmful thoughts that prevent people from moving forward.
  • Emotional blockers may stop individuals from forming connections or pursuing goals due to fear or past experiences.
  • Overcoming these psychological obstacles often involves self-reflection and professional guidance.

Art & Literature

  • Blockers can be symbols in stories, representing challenges characters must overcome to achieve their goals.
  • In graphic novels, block characters often play the role of adversaries, illustrating conflict and resolution.
  • The notion of blockage is a common theme in poetry, highlighting the struggle against physical and emotional limitations.

Origin of 'blocker'

Main points about word origin

  • This word comes from the verb 'block', which means to stop something from passing.
  • The term emerged in the late 19th century, primarily used in contexts like sports and construction.
  • The suffix '-er' turns verbs into nouns, meaning someone or something that performs the action.

The term 'blocker' originated in the late 19th century, primarily in the context of sports. It was initially used to describe a player who obstructs an opponent's progress. Over time, the term evolved to also refer to a program or device that blocks unauthorized access in the realm of technology and cybersecurity.

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

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,394, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.