block

²block

verb

Definition of BLOCK

transitive verb

1

a : to make unsuitable for passage or progress by obstruction b archaic : blockade c : to hinder the passage, progress, or accomplishment of by or as if by interposing an obstruction d : to shut off from view e : to interfere usually legitimately with (as an opponent) in various games or sports f : to prevent normal functioning or action of g : to restrict the exchange of (as currency or checks)

2

: to mark or indicate the outline or chief lines of <block out a design>

3

: to shape on, with, or as if with a block <block a hat>

4

: to secure, support, or provide with a block

5

: to work out or chart the movements of (as stage performers) —often used with out

6

: to make (two or more lines of writing or type) flush at the left or at both left and right

intransitive verb

: to block an opponent in sports

— block·er noun

Examples of BLOCK

1. There's an accident blocking the road.
2. The entrance was blocked by a gate.
3. Blood clots have completely blocked one of his arteries.
4. The protesters blocked the road with parked vehicles.
5. The ambulance was blocked by cars in the road.
6. An accident was blocking traffic.
7. Could you move to the left, please. You're blocking my light.
8. a shield that blocks the wind
9. Several senators are trying to block the passage of the bill.
10. His vote blocked the treaty.

First Known Use of BLOCK

1580

Related to BLOCK

Synonyms: fill, bung, dam, pack, plug, stop, stuff

Antonyms: clear, free, open (up), unblock, unclog, unplug, unstop

Related Words: choke, clog, close (off), clot, congest, jam, obstruct, occlude; caulk, chink, seal; repack, restuff

Near Antonyms: excavate, hollow (out), scoop (out), shovel

see all synonyms and antonyms

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See Synonym Discussion at hinder