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.
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.
© Webster 1913.
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.
© Webster 1913.