mortar
|mor/tar|
🇺🇸
/ˈmɔrtər/
🇬🇧
/ˈmɔːtə/
binding or grinding substance
Etymology
'mortar' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'mortarium,' where 'mortarium' meant 'bowl for mixing or pounding.'
'mortarium' transformed into the Old French word 'mortier,' and eventually became the modern English word 'mortar' through Middle English.
Initially, it meant 'bowl for mixing or pounding,' but over time it evolved into its current meanings related to construction, weaponry, and kitchen tools.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a mixture of lime, cement, sand, and water used in building to bond bricks or stones.
The mason applied mortar between the bricks.
Synonyms
Noun 2
a short, smoothbore gun for firing shells (technically called bombs) at high angles.
The soldiers used a mortar to attack the enemy's position.
Synonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/02/07 19:51