building block

noun

: a unit of construction or composition
especially : something essential on which a larger entity is based

Examples of building block in a Sentence

historically the infantry division has been a basic building block of armies
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
These asteroids are a direct window into the building blocks of our solar system and the origins of life. Patrick M. Shober, The Conversation, 14 Apr. 2025 These companies feel like necessary building blocks of modern existence. Matteo Wong, The Atlantic, 10 Apr. 2025 But these are simple building blocks, commodity products which can be sourced from the U.S. and Japan. David Hambling, Forbes.com, 8 Apr. 2025 Other basic building blocks for economic growth, such as copper, also saw prices slide on worries the trade war will weaken the global economy. Elaine Kurtenbach, Los Angeles Times, 7 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for building block

Word History

First Known Use

1756, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of building block was in 1756

Cite this Entry

“Building block.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/building%20block. Accessed 18 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

building block

noun
: a unit of construction or composition
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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