Glossary of Woodworking Terminology (C-D)

1. Glossary Terms A-D
2. Glossary Terms E-I
3. Glossary Terms J-M
4. Glossary Terms N-Q
5. Glossary Terms R-T
6. Glossary Terms U-Z

Biscuit Cutter
Commonly referred to as a Plate Joiner, this power tool is used to cut slots in boards to accommodate biscuits.

Cabinetry
The method or act of building cabinets.

Cabinet
A sturdy wooden box, typically mounted on a wall, that is used to hold other items. Cabinets sometimes have adjustable shelves or doors to conceal the contents.

Carcase
The basic box portion of any cabinet.

Chisel
A wood chisel is used for cleanly paring out small bits of stock.

Circular Saw
Handheld power tool used for ripping and cross-cutting hardwoods, softwoods and non-wood materials.

Claw Hammer
The most basic tool in woodworking, used for driving and removing nails from stock.

Combination Square
A combination square is a precision square that can measure and mark 90-degree and 45-degree angles with ease.

Compound Miter Saw
A table mounted saw that allows for cross-cutting precise compound angles on stock.

Countersink
A countersink is used to create a tapered recess in hardwood to accommodate the head of a wood screw.

Dado
The dado is one of the most commonly-used woodworking joints, and is particularly well-suited for building cabinets. A dado is nothing more than a rectangular-shaped groove cut into one piece of wood that will securely hold another piece of wood. Learn how to cut a dado and when to use dadoes in your woodworking projects.

Douglas Fir
A member of the fir family, this tree is the source of much of the softwoods available in home centers in the United States.

Drill
Handheld power tool used for drilling holes or attaching screws. Uses bits to create holes of different sizes.