building block

noun

1. block ( def 2 ).
2. one of a set of cube-shaped blocks used by children to make simple constructions.
3. a basic element or component:

   the building blocks of proteins.

building block

noun

1. a block of stone or other material, larger than a brick, used in building
2. a component that fits with others to form a whole

   standardized software building blocks

3. another name for (the child's toy) block

Word History and Origins

Origin of building block¹

First recorded in 1840–50

Example Sentences

The energy that is being harvested as part of this research is being generated by squeezing amino acid molecules, the building blocks of proteins that exist in the human body.

From Science Daily

Epigenetics is the part of genetics that's based not on the sequence of genetic building blocks but on small yet characteristic chemical markers on these building blocks.

From Science Daily

Crystals are the building blocks that make up many over-the-counter and prescription drugs, insecticides to fight mosquitoes, explosives such as TNT, semiconductors, and light-emitting technologies used in television screens and cell phones.

From Science Daily

French label A.P.C. is the master of wardrobe building blocks, and a great place to turn for luxurious basics.

From Los Angeles Times

British computer scientist Professor Demis Hassabis has won a share of the Nobel Prize for Chemistry for "revolutionary" work on proteins, the building blocks of life.

From BBC

Related Words

• constituent
• ingredient