block [OFr, bloc] , 1. a disruption in the conduction of a nerve impulse. The term may apply to stoppage of nerve conduction as produced by local anesthetics, inhibition of beta receptors by beta-blocker drugs, inhibition of calcium channels by calcium channel blocker drugs, or prevention of neuromuscular transmission by blockade of nicotinic receptors by muscle-relaxant drugs. 2. a device to maintain separation of the teeth, such as a bite block.
