MORTARS Meaning and
Definition
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Mortars, in the context of warfare or construction, refer to a type of indirect fire weapon or a material used for binding substances together. As a weapon, mortars are designed for firing projectiles at high angles to reach targets that are hidden behind cover or barricades. They consist of a tube set at an angle on a base plate, allowing the projectiles to be launched at a steep trajectory, giving them the advantage of being able to drop into enemy positions from above. Mortars are generally portable and can be transported by a team of individuals, making them a flexible and versatile weapon on the battlefield. They are mainly used for infantry support to engage targets that cannot be reached by direct fire weapons, such as machine guns or rifles.
In the context of construction, mortar refers to a paste-like material used for binding bricks, stones, or other building blocks together to create structures like walls or surfaces. It typically consists of a mixture of cement, sand, and water, and sometimes additional additives such as lime or clay. Mortar provides the necessary bond between the individual elements of a structure, ensuring stability, structural integrity, and resistance to environmental conditions. Additionally, mortar can be used as a decorative element, allowing for the creation of various patterns and finishes on surfaces. Different types of mortar exist based on the specific requirements of a construction project, such as load-bearing capacity, weather resistance, or aesthetic considerations.
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Etymology of MORTARS
The word "mortars" has an interesting etymology. It ultimately traces its roots back to Latin, where the word "mortarium" referred to a vessel used for grinding or pulverizing substances. In Latin, "mortarium" was derived from "mors" (meaning death) due to the fact that it was often used for grinding various medicinal herbs or substances.
Over time, the word "mortarium" was borrowed into Old French as "mortier", retaining its original meaning of a grinding vessel. In Old French, "mortier" also came to be associated with a specific type of weapon used in warfare – a short cannon firing shells at high angles, typically using a fixed base. This weapon was called "mortier" due to its resemblance to the shape of a mortar used for grinding.
Similar spelling words for MORTARS
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