Definition of the word mortar board

The term "mortar board" is commonly associated with academic regalia, particularly in Western cultures. This flat, square cap is typically adorned with a tassel and is worn by graduates during commencement ceremonies. The origins of the mortar board can be traced back to medieval times when apprentice masons would wear similar headdresses as a symbol of their trade. These caps, known as "mortar caps," were used to hold wet mortar, which is a paste made from lime, water, and sand that is used in masonry construction. In the 16th century, the mortar cap evolved into a more formal headpiece known as the "skullcap." This cap was still worn by masons but also began to be adopted by university students as a symbol of their learning. It was called the "skullcap" because it was thought to resemble a human skull, a nod to the academic pursuit of wisdom. As the years passed, the skullcap became more ornate and took on its modern-day look. The square shape of the mortar board is said to represent the solid foundations of academic learning, while the tassel on the cap represents the wearer's field of study. So, in short, the mortar board originated as a practical tool for masons, but its symbolic significance has evolved over time to represent the pursuit of knowledge and academic accomplishment.