dovetail

Noun · Verb
Synonyms: dovetail joint

WordNet 3.0

Noun (1)

  1. a mortise joint formed by interlocking tenons and mortisesSynonyms: dovetail joint

Verb (1)

  1. fit together tightly, as if by means of a dovetail
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Webster's Dictionary (GCIDE)

Dovetail \Dove"tail`\, n. (Carp.) A flaring tenon, or tongue (shaped like a bird's tail spread), and a mortise, or socket, into which it fits tightly, making an interlocking joint between two pieces which resists pulling a part in all directions except one. [1913 Webster]

Dovetail molding (Arch.), a molding of any convex section arranged in a sort of zigzag, like a series of dovetails.

Dovetail saw (Carp.), a saw used in dovetailing. [1913 Webster]

Dovetail \Dove"tail`\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Dovetailed; p. pr. & vb. n. Dovetailing.]

1.(Carp.) (a) To cut to a dovetail. (b) To join by means of dovetails. [1913 Webster]

2.To fit in or connect strongly, skillfully, or nicely; to fit ingeniously or complexly. [1913 Webster]

He put together a piece of joinery so crossly indented and whimsically dovetailed . . . that it was indeed a very curious show.— Burke.[1913 Webster]
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