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Definition of "dovetail" [dove•tail]

  • A fan-shaped tenon that forms a tight interlocking joint when fitted into a corresponding mortise. (noun)
  • A joint formed by interlocking one or more such tenons and mortises. (noun)
  • To cut into or join by means of dovetails. (verb-transitive)
  • To connect or combine precisely or harmoniously. (verb-transitive)
  • To be joined together by means of dovetails. (verb-intransitive)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

Use "dovetail" in a sentence
  • "A thru single dovetail_, Fig. 267, is similar to a slip-joint except that instead of a tenon there is a dovetail."
  • "First, check the drawers to make sure they contain dovetail joints, which complement the natural strength of the wood."
  • "I agree with John the dovetail is a perfect joint the way it works is genius, (when done right) I either need someone to coach me on a different way to get a good dovetail (everytime) or change."