masonry
MAY-suhn-ree
/ˈmeɪsənri/
Stonework, brickwork, or concrete block work; the craft of building in stone or brick.
Refers to structures built by binding individual units (like bricks or stones) together with mortar.
The story behind the word. The term comes from the medieval French 'masson', referring to a stonecutter. Historically, masons were highly skilled artisans who traveled across Europe building cathedrals, guarding their trade secrets through secret guilds.
Word relationships
- stonework: Stonework refers strictly to building with natural stone, while masonry includes brick, concrete blocks, and mortar.
- brickwork: Brickwork is a subset of masonry that deals exclusively with clay bricks.
Commonly confused with
- concrete: Concrete is poured as a liquid and hardens into a single mass, while masonry is assembled piece-by-piece using mortar.
Word family
- mason (noun): A person who builds or works with stone or brick.
- masonic (adjective): Relating to masons or Freemasonry.
Collocations
- masonry wall
- brick masonry
- stone masonry
- masonry restoration
Example sentences
- "The ancient castle's thick masonry walls have withstood centuries of weather and warfare." Historic architecture
- "Water had seeped into the masonry, causing the mortar joints to crumble over the winter." Home maintenance
Memory hook
Think of a 'mason' jar, which is made of thick, heavy glass to preserve food. 'Masonry' is thick, heavy stone or brick designed to preserve a building. Stones and bricks bound with mortar.
When not to use
Do not use for structures made of poured concrete, steel, or wood.
Fun facts
- The Great Wall of China is the world's largest masonry structure, built using a mix of rammed earth, stones, and kiln-fired bricks.
Related words
Also appears in
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