Mosaic
/məʊˈzeɪ.ɪk/noun
A picture or pattern produced by arranging together small colored pieces of hard material.
Did you know?The term 'Mosaic' originates from the Latin 'mosaicus,' meaning 'of the Muses,' linking this art form to inspiration and creativity from the divine.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
μουσικός (mousikos)
“Of the Muses; related to music and the arts.”
1st Century BCE
Latin
mosaicus
“Pertaining to the Muses, thus connected with artistic creation.”
13th Century
Old French
mosaïque
“A decorative art form made with small pieces of colored material.”
15th Century
Middle English
mosaic
“Applied to decorative patterns or pictures made from small pieces of material.”
Modern English
English
mosaic
“Referring broadly to art made from small pieces, often linked to themes of beauty and divine inspiration.”
Explore more surprising origins