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

Such practices are hardly surprising in themselves—working for nothing seems to be a key building block of the new economy.

From The Daily Beast

We also consider the family unit to be the fundamental building block of society.

From The Daily Beast

It is a building block of protein and found in large amounts in the brain, retina, heart, and blood platelets.

From The Daily Beast

It was the first British paper he bought, back in 1969, a key building block in what would become a global empire.

From The Daily Beast

But the early white settlers had firearms and skill in building block-houses, so they took to the valleys near wood and water.

From Project Gutenberg

I was shown in Virginia City a building block of land that rents for ten times what it cost four years ago.

From Project Gutenberg

The little one wanted to play "catch," but Susy saw a great deal more sport in building block houses.

From Project Gutenberg

It includes law of that time which is the same, similar, or a building block to the law of today.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• constituent
• ingredient