# abacisci

CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/abacisci
Updated: 2026-05-02

## Definition

small, square pieces of stone, glass, or marble used to make a mosaic. These tiny tiles are what artists put together to create a larger picture on a floor or wall.

For teachers: the plural form of abaciscus, referring to small square tiles or stones used in the construction of mosaic pavements. Derived from the Greek 'abakiskos', the term is primarily used in archaeological and architectural contexts.

## Examples

- The artist carefully placed the colorful abacisci to form a flower.
- Archaeologists discovered thousands of glass abacisci scattered across the floor of the ancient Roman villa.
- The intricate detail of the Byzantine floor was achieved through the precise arrangement of marble abacisci, each no larger than a fingernail, to create subtle gradients of light and shadow.

## Usage notes

- This is the plural form of 'abaciscus'. It is a technical term used almost exclusively in art history, archaeology, and classical architecture.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.