Masonic Glossary

Ancient Free and Accepted Masonry:
Refers to one of the traditional designations of Freemasonry, used by many Grand Lodges around the world, including the Grand Lodge of Canada in the Province of Ontario.

Free and Accepted refers to the evolution of Masonry from operative stonemasons of the Middle Ages (i.e. those who physically worked with stone) to speculative Masons (i.e. who apply the tools and principles of the Craft to moral and spiritual self-improvement).

Ancient distinguishes this lineage from the parallel “Modern” branch that arose in England in the 18th Century.

Amity:
The formal relationship of mutual recognition and respect between Grand Lodges. When two Grand Lodges are “in amity” it means their members may visit one another’s Lodges and enjoy fraternal relationships as equals. It reflects the broader spirit of harmony and brotherhood that extends across the Masonic world.

Brother:
A title of respect and affection used among members of the Craft. It reflects equality and fellowship shared by all Freemasons, regardless of background or station in life.

Brotherhood:
The bond that unites all Freemasons - a spirit of mutual respect, friendship, and support that extends beyond the walls of the Lodge.

Cowan:
Refers to someone who is not a Mason but attempts to pass themselves off as one, or who intrudes upon Masonic work without proper initiation. The term comes from old Scottish stonemasonry, where a cowan was a rough builder who laid stones without mortar - skilled in appearance but not truly trained in the Craft. In modern times, the word symbolizes the importance of authenticity, integrity, and respect for the Lodge’s traditions.

Craft:
Refers to the fraternity itself - the collective body of Freemasons and the system of moral teaching it preserves. The term originates from medieval guilds of operative stonemasons, whose tools and practices inspired the symbolic lessons of modern or “speculative” Masonry.

Freemasonry:
A worldwide fraternity that promotes moral and personal development through symbolic teachings, fellowship, and service. Its central aim is to help men become better individuals and citizens.

Grand Lodge:
The governing body that oversees Masonic Lodges within a particular jurisdiction or region (e.g. the Grand Lodge of A.F. & A.M of Canada in the Province of Ontario; the United Grand Lodge of England; the Grand Lodge of Scotland; the Grand Lodge of Ireland).

Light:
Symbolizes knowledge, truth, and understanding. Seeking Light embodies striving for personal growth, moral clarity, and the pursuit of wisdom.

Lodge:
Refers to both a group of Freemasons who meet together as well as the physical place where meetings occur. Each Lodge operates under the authority of a Grand Lodge and follows time-honoured customs and rituals.

Profane:
Describes anyone who is not yet a Mason. It carries no negative judgment but rather distinguishes those have not yet been initiated into the Craft from those who have entered it. The word reflects the boundary between then outer world and the symbolic inner world of Light, learning, and moral reflection.

Ritual:
The structured ceremonies and spoken traditions used in Lodge meetings. Ritual conveys moral lessons through allegory and symbolism.

Trestleboard:
A traditional term that originally referred to a craftsman’s planning board — the surface on which plans or designs were drawn before work began.

In modern Masonic usage, the term refers to the schedule of meetings, events, and activities that the Worshipful Master has planned for his year. It outlines the Lodge’s upcoming gatherings, programs, and social occasions, providing members with an organized view of the Lodge’s work and fellowship for the year ahead.

Worshipful:
An old English term meaning honourable or respected. It is used as a title of respect for a brother who has been installed as the Worshipful Master of a Lodge.

Brethren who attain office in Grand Lodge may be addressed using an alternate honorific title such as Most Worshipful, Right Worshipful, or Very Worshipful.

The term worshipful in a masonic context does not have any religious connotations.