BUILDING BLOCK Synonyms: 45 Similar and Opposite Words

building block

noun

Definition of building block

as in member

one of the parts that make up a whole historically the infantry division has been a basic building block of armies

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of building block The building blocks of Ray’s crimes—compulsiveness, transgressiveness, poor boundaries—were there from early adulthood. — Adeline Goss, New Yorker, 11 June 2026 Likewise, Wong’s bricks are beyond compare in the attention lavished on each individual building block. — Lori Waxman, Chicago Tribune, 10 June 2026 Indexes swung lower as companies selling computer chips, memory and other building blocks of the AI boom broke from early gains to losses. — Stan Choe, Fortune, 9 June 2026 Indexes swung lower after companies selling computer chips, memory and other building blocks of the AI boom broke from early gains to losses. — Stan Choe, Los Angeles Times, 9 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for building block

Recent Examples of Synonyms for building block

Noun

The work stoppage at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and MGB Home Care sites began Wednesday, when Massachusetts Nurses Association members voted to strike after months of contract negotiations failed.

— Grace Zokovitch, Boston Herald, 10 July 2026
Often, he was told, immigrants aren’t given the chance to call family members before they’re released, and are dropped off at a nearby plaza, often with uncharged cellphones or no phone at all.

— Itzel Luna, Los Angeles Times, 10 July 2026

Definition of member

Noun

Parker does not carry a cosmic dust detector, and that's because until now dust has not been considered a serious component of the solar atmosphere.

— Keith Cooper, Space.com, 7 July 2026
Assuming the battery is fine (and all the other electrical components and solder have survived the long journey through time), how will the iPhone be activated?

— Ewan Spence, Forbes.com, 6 July 2026

Definition of component

Noun

The space is a balance between tropical escape and late-night lounge, with moody lighting, sexy design elements and music that keeps the energy elevated throughout the evening.

— Blair Crosby, AJC.com, 5 July 2026
The Samba sneakers add a sporty element, while proving to be comfortable and easy to walk around in around New York City.

— Reece Andavolgyi, InStyle, 5 July 2026

Definition of element

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“Building block.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/building%20block. Accessed 13 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of building block

noun

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