auction block

[ awk-shuhn blok ]

noun

1. Also called block. a platform from which an auctioneer sells:

   The auction block in front of the old courthouse was removed and placed in a slavery exhibit at the state museum.

Word History and Origins

Origin of auction block¹

An Americanism dating back to 1840–50

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

1. put on the auction block, to offer for sale at auction; offer to sell to the highest bidder. Also put on the block.

Example Sentences

"We’re thrilled they will journey down the yellow brick road, to the auction block and to a new home."

From BBC

Open’s Opening Night Gala — a yearly event supporting the U.S.T.A’s charitable efforts — saw songwriter Lin Manuel-Miranda in attendance and Alec Baldwin helm an auction block.

From Salon

The painting remained on the auction block for four minutes as three collectors over the phones fought to establish control, before an anonymous bidder named the winning price.

From New York Times

More than 200 of Prince’s fashion items, including his signature ruffled shirt, are going on the auction block.

From New York Times

He warned then that the artwork could go on the auction block to help satisfy the city’s staggering debt.

From Seattle Times