What is a continuous section of masonry, one unit in thickness, referred to as?

A continuous section of masonry that is one unit in thickness is referred to as a wythe. This term specifically designates a vertical section of a wall that spans its height and is typically one masonry unit thick, which can include brick, block, or stone.

Understanding the concept of a wythe is fundamental in masonry construction as it relates to the structural aspects of walls, including load distribution and the containment of moisture. A wall may consist of multiple wythes, which can be used to enhance insulation, acoustic properties, or aesthetic design.

The other terms, while relevant in masonry, describe different aspects. A course refers to a horizontal layer of masonry units, whereas a layer can be a more ambiguous term that might not strictly refer to masonry units alone. A section could imply a broader or non-specific segment of a structure. Focusing on the precision of the term "wythe" helps in understanding proper masonry techniques and construction practices.