mastic

[ mas-tik ]

noun

1. Also called mastic tree, a small Mediterranean tree, Pistacia lentiscus, of the cashew family, that is the source of an aromatic resin used in making varnish and adhesives.
2. any of several similar or related trees, as a pepper tree, Schinus molle, of western South America.
3. the resin obtained from the mastic.
4. any similar resin, especially one yielded by other trees of the same genus.
5. Building Trades.
   1. any of various preparations containing bituminous materials and used as an adhesive or seal.
   2. a pasty form of cement used for filling holes in masonry or plaster.

mastic

/ ˈmæstɪk /

noun

1. an aromatic resin obtained from the mastic tree and used as an astringent and to make varnishes and lacquers
2. mastic tree
   1. a small Mediterranean anacardiaceous evergreen tree, Pistacia lentiscus, that yields the resin mastic
   2. any of various similar trees, such as the pepper tree
3. any of several sticky putty-like substances used as a filler, adhesive, or seal in wood, plaster, or masonry
4. a liquor flavoured with mastic gum

Word History and Origins

Origin of mastic¹

1350–1400; Middle English mastyk < Latin mastichē < Greek mastíchē chewing gum, akin to mastichân to gnash the teeth

Word History and Origins

Origin of mastic¹

C14: via Old French from Late Latin mastichum, from Latin, from Greek mastikhē resin used as chewing gum; from mastikhan to grind the teeth

Example Sentences

"This is a mastic joint, it allows the building to contract and expand," Colin says as he pulls it out of brickwork on the roof.

From BBC

Methods include using a machine called a Dragon Patcher and applying mastic asphalt.

From BBC

Add the grout a day or two after you install the tiles, so the mastic is completely dry first.

From Washington Post

The size of the tile determines the size and shape of the notches in the trowel that spreads the mastic that holds the tile to the wall.

From Seattle Times

Apply the mastic with a caulk gun, but smooth over the bead with a gloved hand, a brush or a putty knife to ensure the material fills the gap.

From Washington Post