dovetail

[duhv-teyl]

noun

Carpentry.

1. a tenon broader at its end than at its base; pin.

2. a joint formed of one or more such tenons fitting tightly within corresponding mortises.

verb (used with or without object)

1. Carpentry.,  to join or fit together by means of a dovetail or dovetails.

2. to join or fit together compactly or harmoniously.

dovetail

/ ˈdʌvˌteɪl /

noun

1. a wedge-shaped tenon

2. Also called: dovetail joint. a joint containing such tenons

verb

1. (tr) to join by means of dovetails

2. to fit or cause to fit together closely or neatly

   he dovetailed his arguments to the desired conclusion

Other Word Forms

• dovetailer noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of dovetail¹

First recorded in 1555–65; so named from its shape

Example Sentences

The neat dovetailing of Tatyana Heard and Megan Jones – a centre partnership that combines power, pace and nous – will have been particularly pleasing.

From BBC

So it’s how can we dovetail the microaggressions that you had mentioned before, his journey, his role in leadership, and also the showmanship this man has.

From Los Angeles Times

In Nicholas Boggs’ lively and vigorously researched biography of James Baldwin, the great writer’s search for the source of his art dovetails with his lifelong search for meaningful relationships.

From Los Angeles Times

Her stage presence was impressive, as was her ability to adapt her slower songs so that they dovetailed perfectly with Lamar's frenetically paced sets.

From BBC

The King's idea of harmony dovetailed with a very deep personal Christian faith, he said.

From BBC

Related Words

• coincide 
• conform 
• correspond 
• harmonize 
• jibe