Bricking up is a term that is commonly used in construction and architecture. It refers to the process of sealing or blocking off a doorway, window, or other opening using bricks or other materials. This technique is often used to improve the insulation and security of a building, or to close off an unused or unwanted space.
Definitions
The definition of bricking up is straightforward: it is the process of blocking off an opening using bricks or other materials. This can be done for a variety of reasons, such as improving insulation, increasing security, or closing off an unused space.
Origin
The origin of bricking up can be traced back to ancient times, when people used mud bricks to build their homes and other structures. Over time, the technique of bricking up evolved, and today it is used in a variety of different construction and architectural contexts.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The meaning of bricking up is generally consistent across different dictionaries. The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “the action of sealing or blocking up an opening with bricks or other materials”. Merriam-Webster defines it as “to close off (an opening) with bricks”.
Associations
Bricking up is often associated with improving the insulation and security of a building. By closing off openings, it is possible to prevent drafts and keep the interior of a building warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Bricking up can also help to increase the security of a building by making it more difficult for intruders to gain access.
Synonyms
There are a number of different synonyms for bricking up, including sealing, blocking, closing, and obstructing. All of these terms refer to the process of closing off an opening using bricks or other materials.
Antonyms
The antonyms of bricking up are opening, unblocking, and unsealing. These terms refer to the opposite process of creating an opening or removing a blockage.
The same root words
There are a number of different words that share the same root as bricking up, including bricklayer, brickwork, and brickyard. All of these words are related to the use of bricks in construction and architecture.
Example Sentences
Here are a few example sentences that demonstrate the use of bricking up in context:
- The old window was bricked up to improve the insulation of the house.
- The doorway was bricked up to prevent intruders from gaining access to the building.
- The unused fireplace was bricked up to create more wall space in the room.
- The builders are planning to brick up the old chimney to make the house more energy-efficient.
- The basement was bricked up to create a more secure storage space for valuable items.