# masonry

/ˈmeɪsənɹi/ (US) · /mˈeɪsɒnɹi/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/masonry
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. stonework or brickwork

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

the parts of a building made of stone, brick, or concrete blocks.

For teachers: the physical structures or components of a building constructed from stone, brick, or similar durable materials.

- The old church has beautiful masonry that has lasted for hundreds of years.
- The restoration project focused on repairing the crumbling masonry of the cathedral's exterior, which had been damaged by decades of acid rain.

Usage: Often used as an uncountable noun to refer to the material or the craft in general.

### 2. the craft of building

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

the skill or job of building things with stone and brick.

For teachers: the trade, craft, or occupation of a mason.

- He spent five years learning the art of masonry from his father.
- Traditional masonry requires a deep understanding of how different types of stone react to pressure and weather over time.

Usage: Uncountable when referring to the profession or skill set.

### 3. Freemasonry

noun · CEFR C2 · Formal

the secret society and traditions of the Freemasons.

For teachers: the institutions, rituals, and principles of the Freemasons.

- The local museum has an exhibit about the history of masonry in this city.
- The influence of masonry on the city's early political elite is evident in the symbols carved into the town hall.

Usage: Usually capitalized as 'Masonry' when referring specifically to the organization.

## Examples

- The old church has beautiful stone masonry.
- The architect decided to use traditional masonry for the exterior walls to match the historic look of the neighborhood.
- Centuries of exposure to acidic rain had begun to erode the intricate masonry of the cathedral's facade, necessitating a multi-million dollar restoration project.

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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.