building block

American  

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 British  

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

---

Etymology

Origin of building block

First recorded in 1840–50

Example Sentences

That causes the molecule to crack into hydrogen and ethylene, the basic building block of plastics such as polyethylene.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 5, 2026

Before the clash, there was a sense that a positive performance in Madrid could be used as a building block for Tudor before a crucial game at Liverpool in the Premier League this weekend.

From BBC • Mar. 10, 2026

That extra building block can expand their biochemical capabilities.

From Science Daily • Feb. 28, 2026

As any sports psychologist can tell you, it’s a fundamental building block for success.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 14, 2026

It’s just one little building block, but they’re about to be surprised by the result.

From "A Deadly Wandering: A Mystery, a Landmark Investigation, and the Astonishing Science of Attention in the Digital Age" by Matt Richtel

Related Words

• constituent
• ingredient