Pronunciation: /ˈmɔːrˌtaɪz/

Definitions of mortise

noun a slot or rectangular hole cut into a piece of wood or other material, into which another part is fixed to form a joint

Example Sentences

A1 The carpenter used a mortise to join the pieces of wood together.

A2 I learned how to create a mortise and tenon joint in woodworking class.

B1 The mortise in the door frame was perfectly cut to fit the lock.

B2 The furniture maker carefully carved out a mortise for the hinges.

C1 The precision of the mortise and tenon joint is crucial for the stability of the structure.

C2 The master craftsman's skillful use of the mortise technique was evident in the flawless finish of the furniture.

verb to cut a slot or hole into a piece of wood or other material

Example Sentences

A1 The carpenter mortises the wood to join the pieces together.

A2 She learned how to mortise the hinges on the cabinet doors.

B1 The craftsman carefully mortised the joints for a perfect fit.

B2 He used a chisel and mallet to mortise the wood for the new door frame.

C1 The master woodworker demonstrated how to mortise with precision and skill.

C2 The artisan mortised intricate designs into the custom furniture pieces.

Examples of mortise in a Sentence

formal The carpenter carefully chiseled out the mortise for the door hinge.

informal Can you help me with this mortise for the cabinet door?

slang I totally messed up the mortise on this project.

figurative His words seemed to mortise perfectly with her thoughts.

Grammatical Forms of mortise

past tense

mortised

plural

mortises

comparative

more mortise

superlative

most mortise

present tense

mortises

future tense

will mortise

perfect tense

has mortised

continuous tense

is mortising

singular

mortise

positive degree

mortise

infinitive

to mortise

gerund

mortising

participle

mortised

Origin and Evolution of mortise

First Known Use: 1250 year
Language of Origin: Latin
Story behind the word: The word 'mortise' originated from Middle English 'mortays' or 'mortaise', which came from Old French 'mortoise', ultimately derived from Latin 'morsus' meaning 'a bite or a notch'.
Evolution of the word: Over time, the word 'mortise' has evolved to specifically refer to a slot or hole in which something is inserted, particularly in woodworking and construction.