What Does "Spin the Block" Really Mean? It Can Mean More Than Just Getting Back With Your Ex

The Gist:

• The phrase "spin the block" has recently gained traction online.
• It most commonly refers to getting back together with your ex, but can have other meanings, too.

Forget the days of clear communication and saying what you mean! Today's generation thrives on coded language and phrases that seem witty while also defying logic. Remember when "ate" was simply the past tense of "eating"? Now, being told you "ate" is one of the highest compliments.

Anyway, let’s chat about the phrase "spin the block." The phrase has been popping up on TikTok and other social media platforms. What does it mean?

Have you ever been lost and found yourself driving around in circles? Perhaps you drove down one block a few minutes ago and find yourself back there again. You figure, "What the heck," and take another spin around. Maybe your outcome will be different this time.

The most common meaning of the phrase "spin the block" means to get back with someone you used to be romantically involved with. As in when someone goes back to their ex, or fling, anyone that they may have been involved with.

As one user on X wrote: "Thinking you can successfully spin the block just cuz you texted me at 2am is crazy."

Another user said: "My ex sent me a parlay saying when I’m ready to spin the block he’ll come pick me up."

Meanwhile, a third expanded their definition of "spin the block" to mean going back to something or someone you have a history with. "One thing I don’t do is spin the block whether it’s a job, city I’ve lived, relationship, friendship," read their tweet.

Judging from these users' tone, they seem to think of it as a negative phrase. Because if things didn't work out the first time, why would they work out now?

However, it's all about perspective. Other folks frame "spin the block" more positively, viewing it as a return to something or a second chance. "When you’re a good person don’t worry about revenge. God gonna spin the block for you," penned another user, implying that a new start was on the horizon.

Meanwhile, some folks may use the phrase more playfully. "Had to spin the block for seconds," wrote one user alongside a yummy plate of food. Gosh, this term has range!