Occlude: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to precise or technical blockage, especially in medical and scientific fields.

• The surgeon had to occlude the blood vessel during the procedure.
• In this experiment, we need to occlude all light from entering the chamber.

Commonly used in everyday language to refer to stopping the movement or progress of something.

• A fallen tree blocked the road.
• She used her hand to block the sun from her eyes.

Used to describe the act of preventing passage by placing an obstacle in the way; can have a negative connotation, especially when intentional.

• The parked car obstructed the fire hydrant.
• The signboard obstructs the view of the intersection.

Informally used to describe the blocking of something, often referring to pipes or drains.

• The sink is clogged again.
• Too much hair can clog the shower drain.

When something is blocked or obstructed, often used in medical or technical contexts to describe the blocking of a passage or opening.

• The doctor warned that the blood vessel could occlude if not treated promptly.
• Clouds occluded the view of the moon.

General term for bringing something to an end or making an opening no longer accessible. Can be used in various everyday situations.

• Please close the door behind you.
• The store closes at 9 PM.

Similar to 'close', often implies a more forceful action. Can be used in more casual and everyday settings.

• Shut the window before it starts raining.
• He shut his book and sighed.

Describes the action where two things are pushed into close contact with each other, often physically.

• He pressed his lips together in frustration.
• Press the two metal pieces together to make them stick.

More technical term, often used in medical or scientific contexts to mean blocking or stopping something from passing through.

• The artery was occluded by a blood clot.
• Dental braces can occlude proper alignment of teeth.

Similar to 'close,' but often carries a stronger sense of firmness or finality. Can sometimes have a slight negative connotation.

• She shut the window tightly.
• Shut your mouth.

Use when referring to shutting something that can be opened, like doors, windows, or books. Common and versatile; suitable for everyday situations.

• Please close the door.
• He closed the book and put it on the shelf.

Best used in contexts involving air- or watertight closures. Commonly used when talking about containers, envelopes, or packaging.

• Seal the envelope before mailing it.
• You need to seal the container to keep the food fresh.