Pronunciation: [tˈɛsəɹə] (IPA) 
The word "tessera" is commonly misspelled as "tessara". The correct spelling is "tessera" /ˈtɛsərə/. The IPA phonetic transcription of "tessera" shows that it has two syllables pronounced as "TES" and "rah". The word tessera refers to a small, square piece of glass or stone used to create a mosaic. The correct spelling is important for the proper understanding and communication of the word's meaning.
Tessera is a noun that refers to a small, typically square-shaped piece of stone, glass, or ceramic material that is used in mosaics. It is derived from the Latin word "tessella," which means a small square.
In the realm of art and architecture, a tessera plays a crucial role in the creation of mosaics. These tiny pieces are carefully cut and arranged to form beautiful and intricate patterns or images. Traditionally, tesserae were made from materials such as marble, glass, or ceramic, and were used in creating dazzling mosaic artworks in ancient civilizations like the Roman Empire.
The process of creating a mosaic involves the precise placement of tesserae, often adhered with mortar or cement, onto a surface such as a wall, floor, or ceiling. The individual tesserae are carefully chosen based on their color, shape, and material to achieve the desired aesthetic effect. This artistic technique has been practiced for thousands of years, from ancient Greek and Roman civilizations to the Byzantine and Islamic Empires.
Today, tesserae are still widely used in mosaic art, both in traditional and contemporary designs. With the advancement of technologies, modern tesserae can be made from a variety of materials such as glass, ceramic, stone, or even recycled materials. They continue to be an essential component in the creation of visually captivating and enduring mosaic masterpieces.
A small six-sided solid of marble, earthenware, glass, &c., used for tesselated pavements, ornamenting walls, &c.; a small square of anything used as a token or ticket.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "tessera" has ancient origins and derives from the ancient Greek word "téssera" (τέσσερα), which means "four". In ancient Greece and Rome, a tessera referred to a small cube or tile used in creating mosaics. Later, it also came to represent a token or a small object with symbolic value, often used for identification purposes or as a ticket for admission. The term has been adopted into English and other languages, maintaining its original meaning or evolving to represent various forms of tokens or small objects.
