Masonry refers to construction materials formed by combining masonry units like stone and brick with mortar. It is one of the oldest construction materials found worldwide in structures like the Egyptian pyramids, Great Wall of China, and European cathedrals. Common masonry materials include brick, stone, and concrete block. Important masonry terms include courses, stretchers, headers, soldiers, and sailors. Masonry provides advantages like thermal comfort, reduced costs, and fire resistance but can experience degradation in extreme weather and requires strong foundations due to weight.