1. The reduction in volume or size of a block of material (such as concrete, wood, or metal) due to loss of moisture, cooling, or other physical processes
The concrete experienced significant block shrinkage after curing.
O concreto sofreu retração de bloco significativa após a cura.
2. In urban planning, the reduction in the apparent size or usable area of a city block due to development or construction
Block shrinkage in the downtown area reduced available parking spaces.
A retração de bloco na área do centro reduziu os espaços de estacionamento disponíveis.