tessera

tes·sera

noun \ˈte-sə-rə\

plural tes·ser·ae\-ˌrē, -ˌrī\

Definition of TESSERA

1

: a small tablet (as of wood, bone, or ivory) used by the ancient Romans as a ticket, tally, voucher, or means of identification

2

: a small piece (as of marble, glass, or tile) used in mosaic work

Origin of TESSERA

Latin, probably ultimately from Greek tessares four; from its having four corners — more at four

First Known Use: 1538