Definition

A situation where something is blocked or stopped, preventing movement or progress.

Example

The doctor found a blockage in the patient's artery that needed to be treated.

Conversation

I was stuck in traffic today because of a blockage on the main road.

That sounds frustrating! Do you know what caused it?

I heard it was a fallen tree that caused the blockage.

Wow, that must have made things really slow for everyone.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Blockage → It is formed from "block" (from Old French *bloquer*, meaning to obstruct or stop) and "-age" (a suffix indicating an action or result). The word "blockage" refers to the result of blocking or the state of being obstructed.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'stopped' or 'obstructed' — 'block' means to stop, and '-age' indicates the result of that action.

Visually Confused Words