mortar
Translation
mortar, pestle and mortar, mortar (weapon)
Examples
The builder mixed sand and cement to make mortar.
The builder mixed sand and cement to make mortar.
She used a pestle and mortar to grind the spices.
She used a pestle and mortar to grind the spices.
The army used a mortar to attack the enemy position.
The army used a mortar to attack the enemy position.
Grammar Patterns
((noun)) a substance used to join bricks The builder mixed the mortar.
((noun)) a bowl for grinding spices She used a pestle and mortar.
Similar Words
Synonyms: cement, plaster (building); bowl, grinder (tool); cannon, howitzer (weapon)
Etymology
From Latin 'mortarium', meaning 'receptacle for pounding' or 'product of pounding'. This root applies to all three meanings.
Memory Tips
Picture a builder using a 'mortar' (bowl) to mix 'mortar' (paste) before firing a 'mortar' (weapon) at a wall.