DOVETAIL
dovetail, dovetail joint
(noun) a mortise joint formed by interlocking tenons and mortises
dovetail
(verb) fit together tightly, as if by means of a dovetail
Source: WordNet® 3.1
Etymology
Noun
dovetail (plural dovetails)
(woodworking) a type of joint where adjoining boards are fastened by interlocking fan-shaped cutouts
Synonym: culvertail
Verb
dovetail (third-person singular simple present dovetails, present participle dovetailing, simple past and past participle dovetailed)
(woodworking, transitive) to unite with a dovetail joint
(by extension) to fit together well
(ditransitive)
(ambitransitive)
(computing, transitive) to interweave a number of subprograms or algorithms so that they can be run more or less simultaneously
Coordinate terms
• finger joint
Anagrams
• violated
Source: Wiktionary
Dove"tail`, n. (Carp.)
Definition: 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. 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.
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.
2. To fit in or connect strongly, skillfully, or nicely; to fit
ingeniously or complexly.
He put together a piece of joinery so crossly indented and
whimsically dovetailed . . . that it was indeed a very curious show.
Burke.
Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition