How Do You Spell MORTAR BOARD?

Pronunciation: [mˈɔːtə bˈɔːd] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "mortar board" can be explained through IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable "mor" is pronounced with the vowel sound "ɔː," as in "caught". The second syllable "tar" has the vowel sound "ɑː," as in "car". The final syllable "board" is pronounced with the "ɔː" sound again, and the "d" is silent. Thus, the correct spelling of this academic hat is "mortar board" with the stress on the second syllable.

MORTAR BOARD Meaning and Definition

  1. A "mortar board" is a noun that refers to a square academic cap that is worn during graduation ceremonies. It is typically made of cloth and often has a flat and narrow top, with edges that are constructed to fold over. The mortar board is usually black in color, but it can also be found in other shades, depending on the academic institution.

    The cap is characterized by a tassel, which is attached to the center of the top and hangs down over one side. The tassel is usually made of thread and can be of various colors, with each color sometimes signifying a different field of study or academic achievement.

    The term "mortar board" originated in reference to a tool used by bricklayers, which has a flat, square shape similar to the cap's top. The mortar board, when worn, is a symbol of the wearer's academic accomplishment and signifies the completion of a degree or a period of education.

    As a graduation cap, the mortar board is an iconic symbol of academia and is commonly worn by students, faculty members, and distinguished guests during commencement ceremonies. It is often combined with a graduation gown and other ceremonial accessories, such as a hood or stole, to complete the traditional attire for graduation events.

Common Misspellings for MORTAR BOARD

  • mortarboard
  • nortar board
  • kortar board
  • jortar board
  • mirtar board
  • mkrtar board
  • mlrtar board
  • mprtar board
  • m0rtar board
  • m9rtar board
  • moetar board
  • modtar board
  • moftar board
  • mottar board
  • mo5tar board
  • mo4tar board
  • morrar board
  • morfar board
  • morgar board
  • moryar board

Etymology of MORTAR BOARD

The word "mortar board" has its origins in the early 19th century and specifically refers to a type of hat traditionally worn by scholars and graduates during academic ceremonies. The term "mortar" in this context is derived from the Latin word "mōrtārium", meaning "a bowl for mixing or pounding".

The hat's design resembles such a bowl, with a flat and square-shaped top, recalling the shape of a mortar used in masonry or for grinding substances. Additionally, the "board" element of the term refers to the stiff board or stiffened fabric that forms the flat top of the hat. The mortar board hat has become a symbol of academic achievement and is commonly worn during graduation ceremonies by students and faculty members alike.

Similar spelling words for MORTAR BOARD

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