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mosaic
/moʊˈzeɪɪk/
picture made of small colored pieces
The ancient Roman villa had a beautiful mosaic floor depicting a mythological scene.
The floor was decorated with small colored tiles arranged to form a detailed picture of a myth.
formal
A picture or pattern produced by arranging together small pieces of stone, glass, or other materials.
The artist spent months creating a mosaic mural for the city square.
The mural was made by carefully placing tiny colored tiles to form an image.
Often used in art, architecture, and decorative design.
formal
Something composed of diverse elements that form a unified whole.
The city's cultural mosaic includes people from over 50 different countries.
The city's diverse population creates a rich blend of cultures.
Used metaphorically to describe diversity or variety.
Medicine
Medical
A viral infection causing skin lesions, typically in immunocompromised individuals.
The doctor diagnosed the patient with a severe case of mosaic virus.
The patient had skin lesions caused by a viral infection.
Also called 'mosaic disease' in plants.
Collocations
mosaic artart made of small piecesmosaic tilesmall tile used in mosaicsmosaic patterndesign created by small pieces
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Visualizing Mosaics
Think of mosaics as a puzzle where each piece contributes to the whole image. This helps in understanding both the artistic and metaphorical uses.
Gold Rule
Art vs. Metaphor
Use 'mosaic' literally for art made of small pieces. Use it metaphorically for diversity or variety, e.g., 'a cultural mosaic.'
Word Origin
From Latin *mosaicus*, derived from Greek *mouseios* (of the Muses) via *mousa* (Muse), likely due to the artistic nature of early mosaics in temples dedicated to the Muses.
Usage Notes
In art, mosaics are often permanent and durable. The metaphorical use emphasizes diversity and integration.
Word Breakdown
mosaic
from Greek *mousa* (Muse)
rootEnglish Dictionary