DictionaryrusticateRough masonry finish
verb

rusticate

To finish masonry with rough faces and recessed joints.

Masons rusticate the wall with rough stone faces and recessed joints.

Etymology

Rustic suggested a rough or rural character. Masonry adopted that appearance for blocks with rough faces and strongly marked joints.

More examples

  • The crew rusticated the limestone blocks around the entrance.
  • The architect specifies rusticated masonry for the building's lower story.
  • By rusticating the stonework, masons make each block stand out.

Forms

rusticate · rusticates · rusticated · rusticating

rustication noun — A masonry finish featuring rough faces and recessed joints.

Similar words

roughen
Changes surface texture without necessarily creating recessed masonry joints.