Definitions

1. noun

A small handheld tool used to hold and pound a chisel against a surface, typically used for breaking up stones or bricks, or a mixture of water, sand, and cement used to bind bricks, stones, or concrete blocks together in masonry.

“The worker used a mortar to break up the old stones and prepare the foundation for the new building.”

2. noun

A type of shell or projectile fired from a mortar.

“The mortar exploded loudly on impact, causing damage to the nearby structures.”

3. verb

To crush or pound something into a fine powder, especially using a mortar.

“The pharmacist mortared the herbs into a fine powder to mix with the medicine.”

4. verb

To fire a mortar at something.

“The soldiers mortared the enemy’s position, trying to break their defenses.”