GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

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Found 2 definitions

1.       
   Dovetail , n. (Carp.) 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.
   1913 Webster
   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.
   1913 Webster
   
         
       

2.       
   Dovetail, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Dovetailed ; p. pr. & vb. n. Dovetailing.]
   (Carp.) (a) To cut to a dovetail. (b) To join by means of dovetails.
   1913 Webster
   To fit in or connect strongly, skillfully, or nicely; to fit ingeniously or complexly.
   1913 Webster
   He put together a piece of joinery so crossly indented and whimsically dovetailed . . . that it was indeed a very curious show.
   Burke.
   
   1913 Webster