Definition

1. Noun:
   • The main structural component of an internal combustion engine: A "cylinder block" is a solid metal casting that houses the engine's cylinders, coolant passages, and often other components like the crankshaft. It forms the foundation of the engine.

Usage

• The term "cylinder block" is used specifically in mechanical and automotive engineering contexts to refer to the central, integrated structure of an engine.
• It is often simply called the "engine block" or just the "block".

Examples

• Noun:
  • The mechanic discovered a crack in the cylinder block, which required a full engine rebuild.
  • Modern cylinder blocks are often made from aluminum alloys to reduce weight.

Advanced Usage

• "to have a cracked block": This phrase indicates a severe engine failure where the cylinder block itself is damaged.
  • The car overheated badly and ended up with a cracked block.

Variants and Related Words

• Engine block (n): A direct synonym for "cylinder block."
  • The engine block was carefully machined to precise specifications.
• Block (n, informal): A common shortened form used in automotive contexts.
  • We need to check if the block is warped.

Synonyms

• Engine block: The most common direct synonym.
• Motor block: A less common but equivalent term.

Related Phrases

• Short block: An engine assembly that includes the cylinder block with installed crankshaft and connecting rods, but not the cylinder head(s) or external components.
  • They ordered a short block to speed up the repair.
• Long block: A more complete engine assembly than a short block, typically including the cylinder head(s), camshaft, and valve train.
  • The rebuild kit upgraded the motor to a long block.

Noun

1. a metal casting containing the cylinders and cooling ducts of an engine
   • the engine had to be replaced because the block was cracked