Without getting too technical, a short block is a Engine missing the intake manifold, carburetor, exhaust manifold, all accessories. A long block is usually a Engine with everything except carburetor and accessories.

The discussion you refer to was about the physical length of one engine versus another as in a GMC I-6 engine is physically longer than
a Chevy I-6.🛠


Martin
'62 Chevy C-10 Stepside Shortbed (Restomod in progress)
'47 Chevy 3100 5 Window (long term project)
‘65 Chevy Biscayne (Emily)
‘39 Dodge Business Coupe (Clarence)
“I fought the law and the law won" now I are a retired one!
Support those brave men/women who stand the "Thin Blue Line"! Hug a cop!
USAF 1965-1969 Weather Observation Tech (I got paid to look at the clouds)