occlude
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /əˈkluːd/
KK: /əˈkluːd/
intransitive verb
Definition
To close or block an opening or passage, often used in a medical or dental context.
Example
The dentist explained how the teeth occlude when the mouth is closed.
Tense Forms
Past: occluded
Past Participle: occluded
Conversation
Did you know that some people have trouble when their teeth occlude incorrectly?
Really? I had no idea that could cause issues.
Yeah, it can lead to pain or even jaw problems.
That sounds serious! I guess it’s important to get regular dental check-ups.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
block
close
seal
Antonyms
open
expose
reveal
transitive verb
Definition
To block or close something so that it cannot pass through, such as light or blood.
Example
The doctor had to occlude the artery to stop the bleeding.
Tense Forms
Past: occluded
Past Participle: occluded
Conversation
Have you ever noticed how smoke can occlude your view when there's a fire?
Yeah, it can get really hard to see anything in that situation.
Exactly! It’s interesting how some materials can occlude light as well.
Root Explanation
Occlude → It is formed from "ob-" (meaning against) and "claudere" (meaning to close). The word describes the act of closing off or blocking something, often in a physical or metaphorical sense.
Memory Tip
Think of something being 'closed off' ('claudere') 'against' ('ob-') something else — that's why occlude means to block or close off.
Visually Confused Words
obclude
unoccluded
conclude