Block Definition | GIS Dictionary

block

[data architecture] A group of records in a compressed file geodatabase feature class or table that are stored together. The arrangement of compressed data into blocks helps optimize query performance.
[geography, social GIS] A statistical area in United States geography, bounded by visible features—such as streets, roads, streams, or railroad tracks—or by invisible lines—such as property or administrative boundaries. Blocks are nested within all other tabulated census geographies and are assigned a unique four-digit code within each census tract. Most block codes that begin with zero indicate an all-water block.