dovetail in English
- dovetail⇄dovetail, noun, verb.
- dovetail⇄noun 1. a projection at the end of a piece of wood, metal, or plastic, that can be fitted into a corresponding opening at the end of another piece to form a joint.
2. the joint formed in this way. - dovetail⇄v.i. 1. to fit together exactly.
Ex. The various pieces of evidence dovetailed so completely that the mystery was solved at once.
2. (Figurative.) to fit compactly or harmoniously. - dovetail⇄v.t. 1. to fasten, join, or fit together with dovetails.
2. (Figurative.) to join compactly or harmoniously.
Ex. The plan ... would dovetail limitations on nuclear weapons with cutbacks in conventional arms (Wall Street Journal).
dovetail in Gujarati ગુજરાતી
dovetail in Telugu తెలుగు
Dovetail
Part of Speech
Verb, Noun
Pronunciation
IPA: /ˈdoʊvˌteɪl/
Definitions
- verb: To fit or work together harmoniously or precisely, as in the joining of two pieces of wood or ideas.
- verb: To connect or coordinate things in a way that ensures compatibility and smooth operation.
- noun: A type of joint used in woodworking, where two pieces of wood are joined together by interlocking shapes resembling a dove’s tail.
Usage Examples
- The engineer’s designs dovetail perfectly with the existing systems, creating seamless integration.
- Using dovetail joints ensures the furniture pieces are both sturdy and aesthetically pleasing.
- The two ideas dovetail in such a way that they form a strong argument for the new policy.
Etymology
The term “dovetail” originates from the 17th century, where it was used to describe a specific type of wood joint that resembled the shape of a dove’s tail. The verb form, meaning to fit or fit together precisely, emerged from this woodworking term.
Synonyms
- Fit together
- Match
- Coordinate
- Integrate
Antonyms
- Conflict
- Clash
- Misalign
- Disorganize
Translations
| Language | Translation | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Spanish | Encajar | /enˈka.xar/ |
| French | Emboîter | /ɑ̃.bwa.te/ |
| German | Passgenau | /ˈpasɡəˌnaʊ/ |
| Italian | Incastonare | /inka.stoˈna.re/ |
| Chinese (Mandarin) | 契合 | /qìhé/ |
| Arabic | يتناسب | /yatanaasab/ |
| Russian | Совпадать | /səfˈpadətʲ/ |
| Japanese | ぴったり合わせる | /pittari awaseru/ |
| Korean | 맞추다 | /machuda/ |
| Hindi | मिलाना | /milaana/ |
| Bengali | মিলানো | /milaano/ |
| Telugu | ఒకటిగా చేయడం | /okaṭigā cēyaḍaṁ/ |
| Marathi | जुळवणे | /juḷavaṇe/ |
Regional Pronunciation Variations
The pronunciation of "dovetail" is largely consistent across English-speaking regions, though some variations may be noted. In British English, it is pronounced with a slightly softer "v," while in American English, the pronunciation may emphasize a clearer "v" sound.
Historical Usage
The term “dovetail” originated in woodworking, where it referred to a particular type of joint that connected two pieces of wood securely. Over time, the meaning expanded to refer to any harmonious fitting or connection, such as in business, music, or ideas. The term was first recorded in English in the 17th century.
Cultural Nuances
The use of dovetail joints in woodworking is still a respected technique in traditional carpentry. It symbolizes precision, durability, and quality craftsmanship. In broader usage, "dovetail" often symbolizes the idea of harmony and alignment, making it a favored term in discussions of teamwork and collaboration.
More Information
The word "dovetail" has transcended its original use in woodworking and has become an idiomatic expression in many contexts. Whether in a technical field like engineering or in everyday language, to "dovetail" something suggests bringing parts or concepts together with precision. In carpentry, the dovetail joint is admired for its strength and durability, often used in fine furniture making. The term’s metaphorical use emphasizes the seamlessness of coordinated action or compatible elements.