Definition of tessera
tesserae
play \-ˌrē, -ˌrī\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
Explore M-W
Recent Examples of tessera from the Web
-
In the milling street Crivano feels invisible again, a tessera blended into a mosaic.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'tessera.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Origin and Etymology of tessera
Latin, probably ultimately from Greek tessares four; from its having four corners — more at four
Learn More about tessera
-
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about tessera
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up tessera? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!