blocking
UK: ˈblɒkɪŋ | US: ˈblɑːkɪŋ
n. the act of obstructing or preventing movement or progress
n. (theater/film) the arrangement or planning of actors' movements on stage
v. (present participle of "block") to obstruct or hinder
The word "blocking" derives from the Middle Dutch "blok" (log or solid piece), later adopted into English as "block" (a sturdy object used to obstruct). The suffix "-ing" transforms the verb "block" into a noun or present participle, emphasizing the action or result of obstruction. In theater, "blocking" evolved metaphorically to describe the deliberate "placement" of actors as if positioning physical objects.
The protesters formed a human chain, blocking the entrance to the building.
The director spent hours perfecting the blocking for the final scene.
Heavy snowfall is blocking major highways across the region.
Her hesitation was blocking her ability to make a decision.
The firewall prevents malware by blocking suspicious network traffic.