Dictionary

1dovetail

noun dove·tail \ˈdəv-ˌtāl\

: a type of joint that is used to connect two pieces of wood together

Full Definition of DOVETAIL

:  something resembling a dove's tail; especially :  a flaring tenon and a mortise into which it fits tightly making an interlocking joint between two pieces (as of wood)
ADVERTISEMENT

Illustration of DOVETAIL

First Known Use of DOVETAIL

1573

Other Building Terms

batten, cistern, hearth, lath, transom, wainscot

2dovetail

verb

: to join (two pieces of wood) with dovetail joints

: to fit together in a pleasing or satisfying way

Full Definition of DOVETAIL

transitive verb
1
a :  to join by means of dovetails
b :  to cut to a dovetail
2
a :  to fit skillfully to form a whole
b :  to fit together with
intransitive verb
:  to fit together into a whole

First Known Use of DOVETAIL

circa 1656

Browse

8 ENTRIES FOUND:
Next Word in the Dictionary: dovetail crampPrevious Word in the Dictionary: dove shellAll Words Near: dovetail
ADVERTISEMENT
How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.
Test your vocab with our fun, fast game
Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears