Definition

A small square piece of stone, glass, or other material used to create patterns in mosaics, or a small tablet used in ancient times for identification or as a ticket.

Example

The artist carefully placed each tessera to form a beautiful mosaic.

Conversation

Have you ever seen a mosaic made with tiny tessera before?

Yeah, they can be really beautiful and intricate!

I love how each tessera adds to the overall picture.

Exactly! It’s amazing how something so small can create such art.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Tessera → It comes from Latin 'tessera' (meaning a small square or tile). The word originally referred to a small piece used in games or as a token, often made of clay or stone, and later came to signify a ticket or pass.

Memory Tip

Imagine a small 'tile' ('tessera') that serves as a token or pass — that's how 'tessera' connects to its meaning.

Visually Confused Words