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

Example Sentences

The planned distribution center is a key building block for expanding Cardinal’s broader network.

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When strands of DNA - our genetic building blocks - are damaged, a mechanism is triggered whereby another undamaged strand of DNA is used as a template to repair the break.

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Georgieva said governments must continue to support growth by providing “the basic building blocks of free markets,” including “good data” and “independent yet accountable institutions.”

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The lack of a reporting standard has been shocking, Kelly said, but the new frameworks serve as necessary building blocks to improve transparency.

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In line with a well-established approach, which originated in the early 20th century, the team models the fundamental building blocks of memory: the memory "engrams."

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Related Words

• constituent 
• ingredient