block (redirected from draw a blank)

block

(1) A group of disk or tape records that is stored and transferred as a single unit. On a CD, a block consists of 98 frames of 33 bytes for a total of 3,234 bytes, or 1/75th of a second. See block level.

(2) A group of bits or bytes that is transmitted or processed as a single unit.

(3) A group of text characters that has been marked for moving, copying, saving or other operation.

(4) A rectangular group of pixels that are processed as a unit.

(5) A group of program statements that are treated as a unit based on the results of a comparison.

---

block

1. See cylinder block

2. a casing housing one or more freely rotating pulleys

3. Pathol

a. interference in the normal physiological functioning of an organ or part

b. See heart block

c. See nerve block

4. Psychol a short interruption of perceptual or thought processes

5. Computing a group of words treated as a unit of data on a tape, disk, etc

6. Athletics short for starting block

7. Cricket a mark made near the popping crease by a batsman to indicate his position in relation to the wicket

---

block - 1. A unit of data or memory, often, but not exclusively, on a magnetic disk or magnetic tape. Compare record, sector.