freemason
freemason Lexical Profile
freemason Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A member of the international fraternal organization known as the Free and Accepted Masons, characterized by mutual assistance, charitable work, and traditional secret rituals (usually capitalized).
"His grandfather was a lifelong Freemason who helped organize community charity drives through the local lodge."
In the Middle Ages, a skilled itinerant stoneworker who carved freestone or enjoyed the status of a free craftsman.
"The intricate gothic archway was carved by a medieval freemason who traveled from cathedral to cathedral across Europe."
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
From Middle English 'fremason' (late 14th century), compounding 'free' and 'mason'. The 'free' element likely referred either to a skilled stoneworker who carved 'freestone' (fine-grained stone easily worked in any direction) or to an independent craftsman emancipated from feudal guild restrictions.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.