Chockablock Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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chockablock
[ˈtʃɒkəblɒk ]
Definition
full of things
Chockablock describes a state of being filled to capacity or packed tightly with items. It is often used to describe a place that is crowded or a situation where there is a large amount of something. The origin of the term likely comes from a combination of 'chock' and 'block,' suggesting something that is fully blocked or filled. This word conveys a sense of overflowing abundance, often leading to chaos or congestion.
Synonyms
crammed, crowded, filled, jammed, packed.
Examples of usage
- The market was chockablock with shoppers during the sale.
- Her schedule is chockablock with meetings this week.
- The garage is chockablock with old boxes and furniture.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Language Evolution
- Initially used in maritime contexts, the phrase expanded to everyday language to describe any situation that is very full.
- It reflects the playful and vivid nature of English, often repurposing terms from specialized fields for broader use.
Pop Culture
- In the UK, the phrase has been popularized in various TV shows and movies, often to describe messy rooms or overstuffed schedules.
- The phrase has also inspired songs and humor, illustrating the lightheartedness associated with being overly stuffed.
Psychology
- Being 'chockablock' can lead to feelings of overwhelm, as too much of anything can create stress and anxiety.
- In organizational psychology, understanding limits on capacity helps in designing clutter-free environments that enhance productivity.
Literature
- The word has found its place in poetry, often used to depict a scene overflowing with imagery, creating a vivid mental picture.
- Authors use expressions like 'chockablock' to evoke feelings of congestion or abundance in character experiences and settings.
Origin of 'chockablock'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'chockablock' comes from the 18th-century nautical jargon, meaning ships that were so tightly packed that their block and tackle (pulley system) couldn't move.
- It combines 'chock,' meaning to fill something tightly, and 'block,' referring to the heavy wooden blocks used on ships.
The term 'chockablock' is believed to have originated in the late 19th century, possibly in British nautical slang. The word 'chock' means to fill something to the brim, often referring to the way cargo is loaded onto a ship until there is no more room. When combined with 'block,' the implication is one of fullness to the point of obstruction. The phrase captures a vivid image of items packed tightly together, leading to a situation where movement or further addition becomes impossible. Over the years, 'chockablock' has evolved to describe not only physical spaces but also any situation characterized by overcrowding or excessive engagement. Its playful, informal tone lends it popularity in everyday conversation.
Word Frequency Rank
At position #41,971, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.