# abaculi

CEFR C2 · Noun

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

## Definition

small pieces of stone, glass, or marble used to make a mosaic pattern. You find these in ancient floors or artistic wall designs.

For teachers: small, square-cut pieces of stone, glass, or other materials used in the construction of a mosaic. The plural form of abaculus; derived from the diminutive of the Latin 'abacus'.

## Examples

- The artist carefully placed the abaculi to form a blue flower.
- Archaeologists discovered thousands of colorful abaculi scattered across the site of the ancient Roman villa.
- The restoration of the Byzantine dome required the sourcing of specific glass abaculi that matched the original eighth-century pigments and reflective properties.

## Usage notes

- The term is the plural form of 'abaculus'. It is primarily used in archaeological, historical, or specialized artistic contexts.

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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.