ENGLISH
REFERENCE

mortar

n. uncountable
C1 Advanced US //ˈmɔɹtɝ// UK //mˈɔːtɐ// mor·tar Archaic

n. a thick mixture of sand, water, and cement used to hold bricks or stones together in a wall. It acts like a strong glue that hardens as it dries.

n. a workable paste used to bind building blocks such as stones, bricks, and concrete masonry units together. It hardens over time to create a structural bond between the materials.


SIMPLE

The builder applied fresh mortar between the red bricks.

CONTEXTUAL

The old stone wall began to crumble because the mortar had washed away after years of heavy rain.

COMPLEX

Restoration experts must carefully match the chemical composition of the original lime mortar to ensure the structural integrity and historical accuracy of the cathedral's facade.

Synonyms
Origin

From Middle English morter, from Old French mortier, from Latin mortārium. Doublet of mortarium.

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