block out
"Block out" can refer to preventing entry or perception, whether it's light, sound, thoughts, or opponents.
Definition
B2General
(common)To stop something from passing through or entering.
Example
- Heavy curtains can block out the sunlight.
B2Psychology
(idiomatic)To exclude or ignore thoughts, memories, or feelings.
Example
- She tried to block out the painful memories of her past.
B2Planning
(common)To outline or arrange the basic details of something.
Example
- He blocked out the main points of his presentation.
C1Photography
(technical)To prevent light from entering a camera to achieve a specific effect.
Example
- The photographer used a filter to block out excessive light.
B2Sports
(technical, basketball)To position oneself to prevent an opponent from getting a rebound.
Example
- The player blocked out his opponent to grab the rebound.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "block out":
blot outblock offblank outbox outblack outblock upscreen outlock outshut outfilter outbarred outblock systemcut outkeep outblocked upbuff outclear outcancel outshut awayblock partytune outmark output on the blockblow outblast outcross outstop outnut outpaint outpack outblitz outcave outsmoke outblock graphwhite outback outpush outmental blockfog outcarve outwall offchoke outbash outsub outclean outstay outcover upknock outdrain outblock timeleave outhollow outforce out