mortarboard: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal
Quick answer
What does “mortarboard” mean?
A square academic cap with a flat top and a tassel, worn during graduation ceremonies.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A square academic cap with a flat top and a tassel, worn during graduation ceremonies.
Any similar flat-topped board used by bricklayers to hold mortar, though this use is rare. By extension, a symbol of academic achievement and the university system.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Both varieties use 'mortarboard' as the primary term. In AmE, 'cap and gown' is a more frequent general phrase for graduation attire.
Connotations
Identical connotations of tradition, academia, and formal ceremony in both varieties.
Frequency
Low frequency in general speech, but standard and expected in the specific context of graduation.
Grammar
How to Use “mortarboard” in a Sentence
[Subject] wears a mortarboard.The mortarboard [Verb] (fell/slipped/has a tassel).Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “mortarboard” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- She was mortarboaded and gowned for the ceremony.
American English
- The graduates were all mortarboarded for the procession.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Central to descriptions of graduation ceremonies and academic regalia.
Everyday
Only used when discussing graduation events.
Technical
Used in the specific field of academic dress/heraldry.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “mortarboard”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “mortarboard”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “mortarboard”
- Misspelling as 'mortar board' (two words) is common but the standard is one word.
- Confusing it with other formal hats like a 'beret' or 'tam'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is standardly written as one word: 'mortarboard'.
It is a traditional decorative element. A common ritual is to move the tassel from one side to the other upon receiving the diploma.
Technically yes, as it is the original meaning (a flat board for holding mortar), but this usage is now very rare and technical. The academic cap is the dominant meaning.
They are the same thing. 'Mortarboard' is the specific term for the square cap. 'Graduation cap' is a more general synonym.
A square academic cap with a flat top and a tassel, worn during graduation ceremonies.
Mortarboard is usually formal in register.
Mortarboard: in British English it is pronounced /ˈmɔː.tə.bɔːd/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈmɔːr.t̬ɚ.bɔːrd/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a BOARD used by a bricklayer to hold MORTAR; now imagine a graduate wearing that flat board on their head. The shape is the same.
Conceptual Metaphor
ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT IS A CONSTRUCTED BUILDING (the 'mortar' implying the binding substance of knowledge).
Practice
Quiz
What is a 'mortarboard' primarily associated with?