1 A2 neutral
To obstruct a pipe, drain, or passage so that nothing can flow through it.
"The drain in the bathroom is blocked up with hair again."
separable
block up
A2 neutral separable transitive
To obstruct or fill a passage, hole, or opening so nothing can get through.
In plain English
To block a hole or pipe completely so nothing can pass.
What does "block up" mean?
3 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 A2 neutral
Of the nose or sinuses: to become congested so breathing is difficult.
"My nose is completely blocked up from this cold."
separable
3 B1 neutral
To fill or seal an opening, such as a window or doorway, permanently.
"They blocked up the old fireplace when they renovated the living room."
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To put blocks into something until it is completely stopped up.
Actually means
To block a hole or pipe completely so nothing can pass.
Usage tip
Commonly used for plumbing, nasal congestion, and road/traffic situations. Very frequent in everyday British English. 'My nose is blocked up' is a very common use.
Words that pair with "block up"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
nose drain pipe sink road pore toilet
How to conjugate "block up"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
block up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
blocks up
he/she/it
Past simple
blocked up
yesterday
Past participle
blocked up
have + pp
-ing form
blocking up
continuous
Hear "block up" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "block up" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "block up"
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Keep exploring
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