Mortise vs mortice
Both mortise and mortice are acceptable spellings of the same word in the UK and US. The term is based on the concept of carving out a space to form a strong link between the two pieces.
In carpentry, stonemasonry and ironworking, the word mortise (or mortice) is associated with the term tenon to form a mortise and tenon joint. Generally, mortise is the spelling most commonly used in the UK for carpentry.
The following picture is an example of an tenon very likely from stone 56 at Stonehenge.
![]() |
The lintels at Stonehenge are secured by stone mortise and tenon joints. |
In security, a mortice (or mortise) lock is a type of lock that is installed in doors, furniture or other objects that require a strong form of protection. Generally, mortice is the spelling most commonly used in the UK for security.
![]() |
A common lever-type mortice lock in the UK. |
Both spellings can be either nouns (as described in mortise joints and mortice locks); they are also used as a verb (to “mortice” or “mortise”), meaning to join.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Listed despite problems with its design.
Zen and the art of cycling exploration.
Design Council Homes Taskforce launched
To support government 1.5 million homes target within UK climate commitments.
The story of this knowledge quarter building.
In ecology, in hydrology, in biology and in architecture.
Creating environments that promote physical, mental, and social well-being.
UK cases of neutral current diversion
Research project looks for example contributions.
Overstocking and macro-economics cause a decline.
The 2024 update of the Common Assessment Standard
Demonstrating organisational capability’ to fulfil roles under the Building Safety Act.
56 recommendations for a better built environment
Published by the CIC ahead of the King’s Speech.
SkillELECTRIC Top 8 Competitors Named
in annual search for the UK’s best student electrician.
CIOB Diversity and Inclusion technical information sheet
Step-by-step guide on implementing D and I practices.
Conservation and the Indian City. Book review.
Reversibility in conservation ethics
Learning from painting conservation.
Where It's AT Podcast launched!
New CIAT Architectural Technology Podcast goes live.