Mortise
/ˈmɔːr.tɪs/noun
A recess cut into a piece of material to receive a corresponding projection from another piece.
Did you know?The term "mortise" stems from the Latin word for 'death', suggesting a deep connection between craftsmanship and the finality of life.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
morsus
“to bite, death—implying a finality.”
Old French
Old French
mortise
“a dead or fixed joint, referring to a connection that is permanent.”
Middle English
Middle English
mortis
“a joint in carpentry, emphasizing the concept of binding.”
Modern English
English
mortise
“a defined cut in wood to hold another piece securely, echoing its historical ties to death.”