One of the strongest and most fundamental joints in woodworking. It consists of a projecting solid wood tongue (the tenon) on the end of one member, which fits tightly into a corresponding cavity (the mortise) cut into a second member. This mechanical interlock provides massive gluing surface area and resists shear and twisting forces, making it the standard for chairs, doors, and timber frames.
The dining table base relies entirely on pinned mortise-and-tenon joints for its lateral stability.
Related terms
Mortise
A cavity or rectangular hole cut into a piece of wood to receive a matching projection.
Tenoned
Machined or cut to feature a projecting tongue meant to fit into a mortise.
Wedging
The process of driving wooden tapers into a joint to lock it permanently.
Dowel
A cylindrical wooden peg used to align and reinforce joints.