1
a
: a structure of heavy timbers formerly used for military defense with sides loopholed and pierced for gunfire and often with a projecting upper story
b
: a small easily defended building for protection from enemy fire
2
: a building usually of reinforced concrete serving as an observation point for an operation likely to be accompanied by heat, blast, or radiation hazard

Illustration of blockhouse

Illustration of blockhouse
  • blockhouse 1a

Examples of blockhouse in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
That same Christmas in Columbia, a settlement of four blockhouses and 50 settlers founded a month earlier at what is now Columbia-Tusculum, pioneers held a feast. Jeff Suess, The Enquirer, 15 Dec. 2024 One of the original blockhouses overlooks the canal, while the old town is filled with art galleries and craft stories. Joe Yogerst, Forbes, 9 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1615, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of blockhouse was in 1615

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Cite this Entry

“Blockhouse.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/blockhouse. Accessed 18 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

blockhouse

noun
1
: a building of heavy timbers or of concrete built with holes in its sides through which persons inside may fire out at an enemy
2
: a building used as an observation point for an operation likely to be accompanied by heat, blast, or radiation hazard

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