Dovetail Joint

A joint, used from the end of the 17th century, in which two pieces of wood are joined together at right angles. Each piece of wood has a row of fan-shaped teeth, resembling a dove's tail, which interlock at the joint.

A dovetail joint creates a smooth, finely hand-crafted look/finish for corners in dressers, nightstands, armoires, chests, and other furniture with drawers and lids.