English

Alternative forms

• gapers block

Noun

gapers' block ‎(plural gapers' blocks)

1. (chiefly US and Canada, idiomatic) A traffic jam resulting from motorists slowing to look at a motor vehicle collision or other roadside distraction.
   • 1967, "Above It All," Time, 10 Mar.:

     In the lingo of the traffic reporters, "gapers' block" is a tie-up caused by motorists slowing down to gape at an accident.

   • 2001, "Rocky Road Rocky Mountain National Park boasts as ear-popping drive full of peak experiences," Wichita Eagle (Kansas), 25 Mar., p. 1G:

     In the pretty, tranquil valley, elk were feeding just off the highway, creating a gapers block.

Usage notes

• This term is especially common in the Chicago vicinity.

Synonyms

• gawkers' block
• gawker block
• gawker blocker

Translations

See also

• rubbernecking