Dovetail

nounStandard termWoodworking

A flaring, wedge-shaped interlocking joint that resists being pulled apart.

The dovetail joint consists of trapezoidal pins on one board that interlock with matching tails cut into the end of another board. The flaring shape creates a mechanical lock that prevents the joint from pulling apart in one direction. It is the traditional hallmark of high-quality drawer construction and fine cabinetry.

Heard on the job

The client wants hand-cut half-blind dovetails on all the kitchen drawers.

Also heard as

  • dovetail joint
  • Dovetailed