Brick

/brɪk/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A small rectangular block typically made of fired or sun-dried clay, used for building.
The walls of the house were constructed from red brick.
A solid object used as a projectile or for support.
He threw a brick through the window in a moment of rage.
An object resembling a brick, especially one used in technology, such as a portable electronic device.
My old phone felt like a brick compared to the slim models available today.
verb
To build with bricks.
They will brick the new extension to match the existing structure.
adjective
Having the qualities of a brick, such as solidity or durability.
He had a brick-like demeanor, unyielding and tough.

Etymology

Middle English brik, from Old French brice, perhaps of Germanic origin.

Common Phrases and Expressions

brick by brick:
Gradually and systematically building or developing something.
to drop a brick:
To make an indiscreet remark.
to play with bricks:
To engage in creative activities, often used in children's context.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

A significant amount of money.
That new car costs a brick.
To render or make something unusable, especially electronics.
I accidentally bricked my laptop while trying to update it.