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.

• "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."