tessera

noun tes·sera \ˈte-sə-rə\

plural tes·ser·ae\-ˌrē, -ˌrī\

Definition of TESSERA

: a small tablet (as of wood, bone, or ivory) used by the ancient Romans as a ticket, tally, voucher, or means of identification

: a small piece (as of marble, glass, or tile) used in mosaic work

Latin, probably ultimately from Greek tessares four; from its having four corners — more at four

First Known Use: 1538

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