block out
Britishverb
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to plan or describe (something) in a general fashion
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to prevent the entry or consideration of (something)
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photog printing to mask part of (a negative), in order that light may not pass through it
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Especially not when their pregame preparation includes having to try to block out an international uproar.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 7, 2026
Many of the continent’s buildings lack design features that would keep them cooler in the summer, such as shutters to block out the sun.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 1, 2026
“The larger world, if it doesn’t directly impact the day-to-day,” she told me, “becomes chaff that you kind of block out because you’re so focused on trying to survive this crucible that you’re in.”
From Slate ● Jun. 24, 2026
So when it comes to an actual rush round, they can kind of block out the noise and concentrate on being genuine.
From The Wall Street Journal ● May 8, 2026
A moan escaped him as he pressed his palms against his head, trying to block out something she could not hear.
From "Beasts of Prey" by Ayana Gray
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Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.