block up

To close or fill a passage completely so that nothing can pass through.

• Leaves block up the drain.
• They blocked up the doorway with bricks.
• Do not let food block up the kitchen pipe.

How to use it: block something up (The fallen leaves blocked the drain up.)

Similar words: clog, obstruct, seal

Opposites: unblock, clear

Common phrases: block up a drain, block up an opening

To become completely closed or filled so that nothing can pass through.

• The drain has blocked up again.
• Our kitchen sink blocked up with food scraps.
• Does your nose block up when you have a cold?

How to use it: block up with something (The pipe blocked up with grease.)

Similar words: clog, become obstructed

Opposites: clear

Common phrases: block up completely, block up with something

To lift something and support it on solid blocks.

• They blocked up the car.
• We blocked up the boat to repair its hull.
• Can you block it up safely before removing the wheels?

How to use it: block something up (They blocked the boat up for repairs.)

Similar words: raise, prop up

Opposites: lower

Common phrases: block up a car, block up a boat