Mortise

A mortise is a recessed cavity, slot, or hole, typically rectangular, cut into a piece of wood, stone, or other material, designed to receive a projecting tenon of the same shape to form a joint. The mortise provides a secure, interlocking connection, essential in woodworking, carpentry, and construction for joining pieces at right angles. The strength and stability of the resulting mortise-and-tenon joint depend on the precise fit, the length and depth of the mortise, and the adhesive or mechanical fasteners used. Mortises can be created using various tools, including chisels, routers, and specialized machines, depending on the scale of the project and the desired accuracy.

Mortise meaning with examples

• The carpenter carefully carved the mortise into the post, ensuring it was the perfect size to receive the tenon of the beam. He used his sharp chisel to ensure a precise fit. This would become the main load bearing connection. This mortise-and-tenon joint would support the heavy roof structure and maintain structural integrity.
• The antique table featured intricate mortise-and-tenon joinery, a testament to the craftsmanship of a bygone era. The mortises had been perfectly maintained and even cleaned of the glue over time. This construction technique guaranteed the table's longevity and ability to resist the test of time, showcasing the attention to detail that characterized traditional furniture making.
• Before assembling the frame, the woodworker had to create several mortises to join the side rails to the legs. The mortises needed to be exact, and the tenons needed to be perfect, otherwise the table would be weak. A slight error in any mortise could ruin the work and the frame. A strong and stable frame was the goal.
• When building the cabinet doors, the craftsman utilized a mortise and tenon to achieve a strong and flush joint for the frame. A router was employed to cut mortises for the door hinges, so they would be hidden and seamless. After the frame was complete it was strong and ready for the door panel.