blockade

Definition

The physical blocking or surrounding of a place, especially a port, in order to prevent commerce and traffic in or out.

Etymology

From block + -ade, probably after Dutch blocquade (now blokkade) or German Blockade.

Example Sentences

• "A six-day blockade from 28 May to 2 June saw NR [National Rail] straighten the track through the station, facilitating a linespeed increase from 60mph to 85mph over a 4km stretch."
• "In the mean time, Francesca, separated from Madame de Mercœur, was hidden by a group around the Queen of Sweden. With the wall on one side, and a human blockade on the other, she was left at full leisure to meditate on a vow made at the first announcement of the lottery, namely, that whatever might fall to her lot she would offer in a neighbouring chapel to the Virgin, at whose shrine she would kneel one hour for Guido's safe return."
• "beta-blockade"

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