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

These thoughts dovetail sharply with Gibson grappling with their hair loss and other side effects from chemotherapy.

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That dovetails with AT&T’s big push into fiber through investments that Nispel said are paying off.

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And the exemption even partially dovetails with the European Commission demand to all member states to end the import of Russian oil, gas and nuclear fuel by the end of 2027.

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The trend toward extravagance dovetailed nicely with the emergence of baby boomers and older Gen X–ers with more disposable income, the hankering for less-traveled international locales and a generational shift toward more creature comforts.

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But it’s Gaffin’s candid memories of the family and romantic struggles that dovetailed with her career that lend the tome a weightier, more personal touch.

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Related Words

• coincide 
• conform 
• correspond 
• harmonize 
• jibe