ashlar

or ash·ler

[ ash-ler ]

noun

1. Masonry.
   1. a squared building stone cut more or less true on all faces adjacent to those of other stones so as to permit very thin mortar joints.
   2. such stones collectively.
   3. masonry made of them.
2. Carpentry. a short stud between joists and sloping rafters, especially near the eaves.

verb (used with object)

1. to face with ashlars.

ashlar

/ ˈæʃlə /

noun

1. a block of hewn stone with straight edges for use in building
2. Also calledashlar veneer a thin dressed stone with straight edges, used to face a wall
3. masonry made of ashlar

Word History and Origins

Origin of ashlar¹

1325–75; Middle English ascheler < Middle French aissel ( i ) er < Latin axillāris, equivalent to axill ( a ) ( axis board, plank, axis ¹ + -illa diminutive suffix) + -āris -ar ¹; -ar ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of ashlar¹

C14: from Old French aisselier crossbeam, from ais board, from Latin axis axletree; see axis ¹

Example Sentences

The syncopation of transparent and opaque windows, alternating with ashlar panels, can suggest the patterns of kente cloth.

From New York Times

Building an interior feature wall is one of the most popular applications for ashlar cut, ledge or stacked natural stone.

From Seattle Times

Derived from textured natural materials such as limestone, the ashlar profile has a more refined appearance due to the consistency of heights and its minimal mortar joints.

From Seattle Times

In one instance, the researchers found more than 40 basalt ashlar blocks in a single garden.

From Scientific American

Above a fine stone or ashlar base, the building has been constructed using mainly cream limestone, which has been hand broken and laid criss-cross with the unfinished, raw ends exposed to produce a rich texture.

From BBC