masonry

American  

[mey-suhn-ree] / ˈmeɪ sən ri /

noun

plural

masonries

1. the craft or occupation of a mason.

2. work constructed by a mason, especially stonework.

   the crumbling masonry of ancient walls.

3. (initial capital letter) Freemasonry.

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masonry British  

/ ˈmeɪsənrɪ /

noun

1. the craft of a mason

2. work that is built by a mason; stonework or brickwork

3. (often capital) short for Freemasonry

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Etymology

Origin of masonry

First recorded in 1325–75; Middle English masonerie, from Middle French maçonnerie; equivalent to mason + -ery

Example Sentences

It plans to replace the timber work and deck bracing, as well as refurbish the ironwork and masonry to maintain it as a crossing for cyclists and pedestrians.

From BBC • Mar. 14, 2026

His graciousness even extended to the treatment of wooden water tanks, which he often wrapped in masonry to give them the appearance of little temples—much nicer to look at from the street.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 23, 2026

A witness told AFP that masonry from an eight-storey building in Dhaka had fallen onto a busy road below.

From Barron's • Nov. 21, 2025

Finally, six hours later, Abu Warda parked the tractor before a heap of masonry and distressed rebar in Jabalia: home.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 12, 2025

Bod led Scarlett carefully up the steps, through the hill, into the jutting black masonry of the Frobisher mausoleum.

From "The Graveyard Book" by Neil Gaiman