building block

noun

1. block.

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

Related Words

• constituent 
• ingredient