dou-uhl
Noun
A cylindrical wooden or metal pin used to join two pieces of wood together.
Example usage: 'We need to use a dowel to secure the frame.'
Most used in: Construction and carpentry projects.
Most used by: Carpenters, joiners, and tradespeople.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 2/10
Also see: Dowel Plate, Dowel Pin, Dowel Rod, Dowel Sleeve,
What is a Dowel?
A dowel is a cylindrical rod, usually made of wood, metal, plastic, or composite materials, used in carpentry and joinery to attach two pieces of wood together. It is inserted into a pre-drilled hole in both pieces of wood and held in place by glue or nails. Dowels are also used to reinforce corners or to strengthen joints.
In carpentry, dowels are often used to create a decorative edge on furniture such as kitchen cabinets, bookcases, and tables. They can also be used to create strong joints between two pieces of wood, such as in the making of chairs and other furniture. Dowels are also used in the construction of stairs, railings, and other architectural elements.
Dowels come in a variety of sizes and shapes, including round, square, hexagonal, and octagonal. The most common size is 3/8 inch in diameter. According to the National Wood Flooring Association, the most commonly used dowel size is 1/4 inch in diameter.
Dowels are an important part of carpentry and joinery, and are used in a variety of applications. They are an essential tool for creating strong and lasting joints between two pieces of wood.
.The History of the Word 'Dowel' in Carpenter Construction
The word 'dowel' has its roots in the Old English language, where it was first used to describe a 'rod, pin, or peg'. It was first used in the context of carpenter construction around the 15th century in the United Kingdom.
The word was derived from the Middle English word 'douel', which was itself derived from the Old French word 'douelle'. This ultimately traces back to the Latin word 'dux' meaning 'leader' or 'guide'. This is likely due to the use of dowels to guide or align pieces of wood in carpentry.
The word 'dowel' is still used in carpenter construction today, referring to a cylindrical rod inserted into pre-drilled holes to join two pieces of wood together. It is usually made of hardwood, metal, or plastic.
