Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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First published 1976 (SND Vol. X).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
BLOCK, n.4 A reduced form of blockade, specif. the act of preventing labour from getting to a factory, etc., during a strike, picketing.Ags. 1830 Perthshire Adv. (20 May):
Sentinels are placed within sight of the shop, to observe and report all proceedings; the town is declared under “block”; and every means are resorted to, to prevent workmen coming from other places.
