mortar
When referring to the building material, 'mortar' is typically an uncountable noun (e.g., "some mortar" rather than "a mortar"). In the context of cooking or pharmacy, it is almost always mentioned as part of the pair "mortar and pestle." As a verb, it is used primarily in professional construction contexts and is less common in everyday conversation.
💬Casual Conversation
This wall is totally crumbling. I think the previous guy skimped on the mortar.
Stop playing architect and just get your stuff inside before it starts raining.
Meanings
A mixture of lime, cement, sand, and water used in building to bond bricks or stones.
"The mason applied a thick layer of mortar between the courses of brick."
A heavy piece of artillery that fires a explosive shell at a high angle.
"The infantry unit used a mortar to target the enemy position behind the hill."
A sturdy bowl, typically made of stone or ceramic, used with a pestle for grinding substances.
"She crushed the peppercorns in a marble mortar."
A square or cylindrical cap worn by graduates during a commencement ceremony.
"He adjusted his mortar and tassel before walking across the stage."
To join or bond something using mortar.
"The workers began to mortar the stones together to form a retaining wall."