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Definition of mortarboard

mortarboard

/ˈmɔːr.tɚ.bɔːrd/
mor · tar · board
Plural:mortarboards
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mortarboard Lexical Profile

mortarboard Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

An academic cap consisting of a flat, square top with a tassel attached to a tight-fitting skullcap, traditionally worn at graduation ceremonies.

Example

"At the conclusion of the commencement speech, the graduates joyously tossed their mortarboards into the air."

2

A small, flat, square board with a handle underneath, used by bricklayers and masons to hold mortar or plaster while working.

Example

"The bricklayer scooped fresh cement directly from his mortarboard with a trowel."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for mortarboard

• Nearby Words

mortality
mortally
mortar
mortarboard
mortgage
mortgageable
mortgagee

Word Origin & Etymology

Mid 19th century. Originally referring to the square board used by bricklayers to hold mortar, the term was later applied humorously to the academic cap due to its similar flat, square shape.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Mortarboard. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/mortarboard
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