Definition

Noun: 1. A raised platform used for displaying items to be sold at an auction: The "auction block" is the physical stand or stage where an auctioneer presents items to potential buyers. Historically, it is most infamously associated with the sale of enslaved people. 2. The state of being offered for sale at an auction (often used figuratively): The phrase "on the block" can refer to any item or asset that is up for auction or being sold.

Usage Examples

• Literal Use:
  • The antique vase was placed on the auction block for all the bidders to see.
  • In the 19th century, enslaved individuals were tragically sold on the auction block.
• Figurative Use:
  • The company's unprofitable division will be put on the auction block next month.
  • With their debts mounting, the family's estate finally went on the auction block.

Advanced Usage

• "to put (something) on the block": To offer something for sale at an auction.
  • The city council voted to put the old library building on the block.
• "to go/come under the hammer": A synonymous idiom for being sold at auction, often used interchangeably with "on the block."
  • The rare stamp collection will go under the hammer next week.

Variants and Related Words

• Block (noun, in this context): Can be used as a shortened form of "auction block" in the phrase "on the block."
  • Their paintings will be on the block this Saturday.
• Auctioneer (noun): The person who conducts the auction from the block.
• Rostrum (noun): A formal term for a raised platform for public speaking, similar in structure but not specific to auctions.

Synonyms

• Auction platform: A more neutral, descriptive synonym.
• Auction stand: Another descriptive term for the physical structure.

Related Phrases

• On the block: The most common phrasal idiom derived from "auction block," meaning for sale at auction.
  • The developer put several prime lots of land on the block.
• Under the hammer: An idiom meaning "being sold at auction," referring to the auctioneer's hammer.
  • The property came under the hammer after the bankruptcy.

Noun

1. a platform from which an auctioneer sells
   • they put their paintings on the block