i know, i know, rookie question, but it's all in the search for knowledge right...is this refering to the 2 main blot (short) and 4 main bolt (long block)?

Short block is usually block, crank, rods, pistons and maybe cam and lifters. Long block is all of the above plus heads, pushrods and rocker arms.

Definitions:
1. Short block = block, freeze plugs, pistons, rings, crankshaft, bearings, and rods, all assembled.
2. Long block = short block, heads, camshaft, oil pump, timing chain & sprockets, lifters, AND maybe, depending upon rebuilder, harmonic balancer, all sheet metal and everything up to no carburetor and fan.

Either one of the above choices may be a 2-bolt block or 4-bolt block.

Soooo many people get this stuff confused early in the hobby...

some think small block is the same as short
and big block same as long....

In marine engines, longs are typically complete and shorts are longs (huh??)