"Bricking" refers to a situation where a device becomes completely nonfunctional—like a brick, it no longer serves its intended purpose. This can happen accidentally due to a failed software update, but more commonly in gaming circles, it refers to deliberate deactivation by the manufacturer.

For example:

• A firmware update disables a console suspected of being hacked.

• Online services are revoked from a device used to access pirated content.

• Anti-piracy measures kick in after unauthorized modifications.

In many cases, users find themselves locked out with little recourse—even though they technically still own the hardware.