'Dovetail' definitions:

Definition of 'dovetail'

From: WordNet
noun
A mortise joint formed by interlocking tenons and mortises [syn: dovetail, dovetail joint]
verb
Fit together tightly, as if by means of a dovetail

Definition of 'Dovetail'

From: GCIDE
  • Dovetail \Dove"tail`\, 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]

Definition of 'Dovetail'

From: GCIDE
  • Dovetail \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. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. 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]