block

Definitions

1. noun

   A solid piece of a material, usually with flat sides.

   Examples

   • They cut a block of ice from the lake.
   • She picked up the block and looked at it.
2. verb

   To stop something from moving or passing.

   Examples

   • A fallen tree blocked the road.
   • The goalkeeper blocked the shot.
3. noun

   A thick piece of wood used for chopping.

   Examples

   • The cook cut the meat on a wooden block.
   • The old story told of a head laid on the block.
4. noun

   A model head used to hold a wig.

   Examples

   • She placed the wig on a block overnight.
   • The stylist kept several blocks for fitting wigs.
5. noun

   A form used to shape a hat.

   Examples

   • The hat maker shaped the felt over a wooden block.
   • Each hat was steamed on its block.
6. noun

   In printing, a wooden base that holds a printing plate.

   Examples

   • The printer fixed the plate to a block before printing.
   • A worn block can spoil the print.
7. noun

   A case with wheels used with ropes to lift heavy things.

   Examples

   • Sailors used a block and tackle to lift the sail.
   • The crane's block held several heavy pulleys.
   ≈pulley block
8. noun

   A thick piece of wood for burning on a fire.

   Examples

   • The farmer put another block on the fire.
   • She added a block of wood to the stove.
9. noun

   A pad of paper sheets joined at one end.

   Examples

   • She sketched on a block of drawing paper.
   • He tore a page from the block.
10. noun

    The stand where a bird of prey sits.

    Examples

    • The falcon rested calmly on its block.
    • The falconer moved the block into the shade.
11. noun

    In the Game of Life, a square pattern of four cells.

    Examples

    • A block is the simplest still pattern in the game.
    • Players put a block near the pattern to stop it.