The most common US usage of the term rusticate is in the architecture and construction industries. To rusticate or provide a rustication is to create a "V" or square shaped inset in a surface, i.e., a wall. Such an inset may be provided as either an architectural feature to provide texture on an otherwise smooth surface or as a location to provide sealant between structural components, or both. An example would be in a concrete structure, the joint between two panels of concrete are often rusticated to provide a location for sealant without having it protrude above the surface of the panels.

Return to "rusticate" page.