[ 'mɔ:tɪs ]
(also mortice )
■ noun a hole or recess designed to receive a corresponding projection (a tenon) so as to join or lock two parts together.
■ verb join securely by means of a ~ and tenon.
↘[often as adjective ~d ] cut a ~ in or through.
Derivatives
~r noun
Origin
ME: from OFr. mortaise .