🧱
Brick
brɪk
Definitions
1
Objects · Construction
Common
A rectangular block of clay used for building structures like walls and houses. Represents construction, building, or something solid and sturdy.
Used literally to reference construction or metaphorically to indicate strength, stability, or barriers.
Finally starting construction on our new house today! 🧱🏠
Instagram post
This workout is hitting like a ton of 🧱 today!
WhatsApp message
Often symbolizes building foundations, both literal structures and metaphorical foundations in life.
2
Metaphorical · Obstacle
Common
Represents an obstacle, barrier, or something heavy and immovable. Can indicate something that's difficult to overcome or process.
Often used in expressions about mental blocks, hitting walls, or facing obstacles.
My brain is just a wall of 🧱 after studying for 8 hours straight.
Text message
In digital communication, can symbolize being emotionally closed off or unresponsive.
Cultural Context
Bricks are one of humanity's oldest building materials, dating back to 7000 BCE. The emoji evokes this ancient connection to human civilization and construction.
The phrase 'hit a brick wall' (meaning to encounter an insurmountable obstacle) influences how this emoji is used metaphorically in digital communication.
In gaming culture, particularly Minecraft, the brick block represents a fundamental building element, giving this emoji additional resonance with younger users.
Regional Variations
United Kingdom
Commonly used in reference to traditional brick houses and architecture which are quintessentially British.
United States
Often used in references to urban environments, basketball courts ('the blacktop'), and DIY home improvement projects.
Generational Usage
Gen_X: Primarily used in literal construction contexts or home improvement discussions. Less metaphorical usage.
Gen_Z: Often used in gaming contexts or to indicate someone is emotionally unresponsive. Also appears in memes about 'bricking' devices.
Older: Limited usage, mostly in literal contexts about construction or gardening projects.
Millennials: Commonly used literally for home renovation projects and DIY content. Also used metaphorically for building foundations in life.
Common Combinations
🧱🏠
Building or constructing a house, home improvement, or solid foundations.
Represents the traditional ideal of building a home or establishing stability.
🧱💪
Solid strength, being tough or resilient, or 'built like a brick house'.
Used to describe physical or mental strength, especially in fitness communities.
🧱🧠
Mental block, brain fog, or feeling stuck in one's thinking.
Used when discussing mental health, productivity challenges, or study difficulties.