Mortal(adj) subject to death; destined to die; as, man is mortal. Mortal(adj) destructive to life; causing or occasioning death; terminating life; exposing to or deserving death; deadly; as, a mortal wound; a mortal sin. Mortal(adj) fatally vulnerable; vital. Mortal(adj) of or pertaining to the time of death. Mortal(adj) affecting as if with power to kill; deathly. Mortal(adj) human; belonging to man, who is mortal; as, mortal wit or knowledge; mortal power. Mortal(adj) very painful or tedious; wearisome; as, a sermon lasting two mortal hours.
Shortcrust pastry is a type of pastry often used for the base of a tart, quiche or pie. It does not puff up during baking because it usually contains no leavening agent. It is possible to make shortcrust pastry with self-raising flour, however.
Shortening is often used in baking. The high fat content allows bakers to create flaky crusts for pies and breads which are not achievable through the use of butter or margarine. While lard is also used for baking, it is also used in a variety of different ways.