Woodcrafted Woodworking Glossary: A Comprehensive Reference for Woodworkers

Welcome to our Woodworking Glossary, a comprehensive reference designed to help beginners and enthusiasts familiarize themselves with standard woodworking terms and jargon.

Whether you’re just starting your woodworking journey or looking to expand your knowledge, this glossary provides definitions and explanations of key terms used in woodworking.

Dive in and explore the rich vocabulary of woodworking!

The Woodworking Glossary

A/Z	Term	Description
A	Abrasive	A material, such as sandpaper or grinding wheels, used for smoothing, shaping, or polishing wood by removing small amounts of material.
	Acrylic finish	A type of finish that consists of acrylic resin dissolved in a solvent, providing a durable and protective coating for wood surfaces.
	Adhesive	A substance, such as glue or epoxy, used to bond two or more surfaces together in woodworking projects.
	Adjustable bevel	A tool with a slotted blade and a thumbscrew mechanism that allows for easy adjustment of the blade angle, used for marking and transferring angles.
	Adjustable mouth	A feature on certain hand planes that allows the user to adjust the size of the opening in front of the blade, affecting the thickness of shavings taken.
	Adze	A cutting tool with a curved blade used for shaping or smoothing concave or convex surfaces, typically used in timber framing or sculptural work.
	Adzing	The process of using an adze, a hand tool with a curved blade, to shape or smooth wood surfaces.
	Air-dried	The process of allowing wood to naturally dry and acclimate to its environment over time, typically by stacking and storing it in a well-ventilated area.
	Anchoring	The process of securing a workpiece or tool in place to ensure stability and safety during woodworking operations.
	Angle gauge	A measuring tool used to determine and set angles accurately, often used in woodworking for layout and joinery.
	Apron plane	A small hand plane typically used for smoothing or chamfering the edges of boards or components.
	Apron	A horizontal member beneath a tabletop or workbench that provides support and stability.
	Arbor nut	The nut that secures the blade or cutting tool to the arbor of a power tool, such as a table saw or miter saw.
	Arbor	The shaft on a power tool, such as a table saw or miter saw, that holds the blade or cutting tool.
	Architectural woodworking	The specialized field of woodworking that involves creating custom woodwork for architectural applications, such as doors, windows, and moldings.
	Architrave	A decorative molding or trim that surrounds a door or window frame.
	Auxiliary fence	An additional fence attached to a table saw, router table, or other power tools to provide added support, accuracy, or safety.
	Backsaw	A type of hand saw with a reinforced spine along the back of the blade for greater rigidity and precise cuts.
	Ball peen hammer	A hammer with a rounded end opposite the striking face, often used for shaping metal or driving small nails.
	Band saw	A power tool with a continuous looped blade used for making curved cuts in wood.
	Bandsaw box	A small box or container made by cutting and shaping a single piece of wood on a bandsaw, often resulting in unique and artistic designs.
	Bandy legs	A term used to describe a piece of furniture or structure that has uneven or misaligned legs.
	Bandy-legged	A term used to describe a piece of furniture or structure with legs that are splayed outward, resembling a bowlegged stance.
	Bar clamp	A long, adjustable clamp with a sliding bar used for securing large workpieces or multiple pieces together during glue-ups or assembly.
	Bark inclusion	A natural defect in wood where bark becomes embedded or enclosed within the growth rings of a tree, potentially affecting the wood's stability.
	Barrel nut	A cylindrical nut with an internally threaded hole, often used in furniture assembly to provide a strong connection between two pieces.
	Beading	A decorative molding or edge treatment consisting of a rounded or grooved profile, often used to add detail and visual interest to furniture or trim.
	Beam compass	A compass-like tool with adjustable arms used to draw or scribe large circles or arcs on wood surfaces.
	Bench dog	A cylindrical or peg-like device that fits into a bench dog hole on a workbench, providing a stop or clamping point for workpieces.
	Bench hook	A small wooden device with hooks and stops used to secure a workpiece to a workbench, providing stability during hand tool operations.
	Bench plane	A versatile hand plane used for flattening, smoothing, and shaping wood surfaces, typically available in different sizes for various tasks.
	Bevel gauge	A measuring tool with an adjustable blade or stock used to determine and transfer angles, particularly for bevel cuts.
	Bevel	An angled cut or edge on a piece of wood.
	Bird's eye	A figure or pattern found in wood characterized by small, swirling grain markings that resemble the eyes of birds.
	Birdsmouth joint	A type of joint commonly used in roof framing where a notch is cut into a rafter to fit securely onto the top plate of a wall.
	Biscuit joiner	A power tool specifically designed for cutting slots to create biscuit joints.
	Biscuit joiner	A power tool that cuts crescent-shaped slots in wood, allowing for the insertion of wooden biscuits to join pieces together.
	Biscuit joinery	A joinery technique that uses wooden biscuits (small, oval-shaped pieces) and glue to connect two pieces of wood together, providing alignment and additional strength.
	Biscuit joint	A method of joining two pieces of wood using oval-shaped wooden discs (biscuits) and adhesive.
	Biscuit slot cutter	A cutting tool specifically designed for creating slots for biscuits in woodworking joints.
	Boring	The process of drilling or creating holes in wood using a drill bit or boring tool.
	Bristle brush	A brush with stiff bristles made from natural materials, such as boar hair, used for applying finishes or cleaning woodworking surfaces.
	Bung	A small wooden or plastic plug used to fill or cover a hole or recess, often used in woodworking for concealing screws or dowels.
	Burning-in	The technique of using a heated metal tool to create decorative burn marks or designs on wood surfaces.
	Burnishing	The process of rubbing or polishing a wood surface with a hard, smooth object to create a polished finish.
	Butt joint	A basic woodworking joint where two pieces of wood are joined together at their ends or edges.
	Buttress thread	A type of thread commonly used in vices or clamps, characterized by a wider base and steeper incline, providing strength and stability.
	Cabinet scraper	A flat, rectangular tool with a burr edge used for smoothing wood surfaces by scraping off thin shavings.
	Cabinetry	The craft of designing, building, and installing cabinets, storage units, and furniture specifically tailored for storage purposes.
	Carbide router bit	A router bit with cutting edges made from carbide, a hard and durable material that maintains sharpness and longevity even when working with hard or abrasive materials.
	Carbide-tipped blade	A saw blade with carbide cutting teeth, known for their durability and long-lasting sharpness, often used for cutting hard or abrasive materials.
	Carbide-tipped	Refers to a cutting tool, such as a saw blade or router bit, with a carbide tip for improved durability and longevity.
	Carcase construction	The assembly of the structural framework or carcass of a piece of furniture, typically made using joinery techniques such as mortise and tenon or dowel joints.
	Carcass saw	A fine-toothed hand saw used for making precise and controlled cuts in small or delicate workpieces.
	Carcass	The framework or structure of a piece of furniture, typically made from solid wood or plywood, onto which other components are attached.
	Carving gouge	A chisel-like tool with a curved cutting edge used for carving and shaping concave or rounded surfaces in wood.
	Center punch	A tool with a pointed tip used to create a small indentation on a workpiece, providing a starting point for drilling or marking.
	Chamfer	A beveled edge or cut made along the corner or edge of a piece of wood.
	Chatter	The vibration or bouncing of a cutting tool, resulting in an uneven or rough surface.
	Chip carving	A decorative carving technique that involves removing small chips of wood to create intricate patterns and designs.
	Chip ejection	The process of removing chips or waste material from the cutting area during woodworking operations, ensuring a clean and efficient cut.
	Chipbreaker	A component found in hand planes that helps control wood chip removal by breaking the chip as it is being cut.
	Chisel	A cutting tool with a sharp blade used for shaping or carving wood.
	Clamping cauls	Long, straight boards used in conjunction with clamps to distribute pressure evenly across a workpiece during glue-up.
	Clear finish	A transparent or semi-transparent coating applied to wood surfaces to enhance the natural grain and color while providing protection against moisture and wear.
	Compass plane	A specialized hand plane with a curved sole used for smoothing and shaping concave or convex surfaces.
	Compressed air system	A system that provides compressed air for various woodworking operations, such as powering pneumatic tools or clearing debris from surfaces.
	Cope and stick joint	A common joint used in cabinetmaking and frame construction, where one piece has a groove (stick) and the other has a shaped profile (cope) that interlock.
	Countersink	A conical-shaped cutting tool or drill bit used to create a recessed hole that allows a screw or fastener to sit flush with the surface of the wood.
	Cross-laminated timber (CLT)	A type of engineered wood product made by layering and bonding multiple layers of wood in alternating directions, providing strength and stability.
	Crosscut	A cut made across the grain of wood, perpendicular to the length of the board.
	Crotch figure	A unique grain pattern that occurs where a tree trunk branches into two or more separate limbs, resulting in a V-shaped figure.
	Dado joint	A joint created by cutting a rectangular groove or slot across the grain of a piece of wood, allowing another piece to fit into it.
	Dado set	A set of stacked blades used in a table saw to make wide, flat-bottomed grooves or dadoes in wood.
	Dado	A groove or channel cut across the grain of a piece of wood to accommodate another piece of wood.
	Dapping block	A block of metal with rounded depressions used for forming or shaping metal sheets or wire in jewelry making or metalworking.
	Depth stop	A feature or accessory on a power tool, such as a drill or router, that allows the user to set a specific depth of cut.
	Distressing	The intentional process of artificially aging or weathering wood to create an antique or rustic appearance.
	Dog hole	A hole or series of holes drilled into the surface of a workbench, used to hold and secure workpieces using bench dogs or other clamping accessories.
	Dolly	A small wooden or metal block used as a backing support when hammering or shaping metal.
	Domino jointer	A specialized tool that cuts mortises and forms tenons for the Domino joinery system, allowing for quick and accurate joinery.
	Dovetail joint	A strong and decorative joint where interlocking wedge-shaped projections (tails and pins) are cut into the ends of two pieces of wood.
	Dovetail joint	A strong and durable joint made by interlocking trapezoidal-shaped pins and tails, commonly used in drawer and box construction.
	Dovetail marker	A precision marking tool with slanted edges used to accurately mark out the angles and spacing for dovetail joints.
	Dovetail saw	A small, fine-toothed hand saw specifically designed for cutting dovetail joints, known for its precision and ability to create clean and accurate cuts.
	Dovetail saw	A small, fine-toothed saw used specifically for cutting dovetail joints.
	Dowel joint	A joint made by aligning and inserting dowels into corresponding holes in two or more pieces of wood, providing a strong and aligned connection.
	Dowel plate	A plate or block with holes of various sizes used to shape or refine wooden dowels by forcing them through the holes.
	Dowel	A cylindrical wooden pin used to join two pieces of wood together.
	Doweling	The process of joining two pieces of wood together by inserting dowels into corresponding holes, creating a strong and aligned connection.
	Drum sander	A large, stationary sanding machine with a rotating drum covered in abrasive material, used for sanding large surfaces or thicknessing wood.
	Dust collection	The system or setup used to capture and remove sawdust and debris generated during woodworking operations.
	Dutchman joint	A type of joint used to repair or patch a defect in wood, where a piece of wood is fitted into a recess or mortise to fill the damaged area.
	Dutchman	A small piece of wood, often contrasting in color or grain, used to patch or repair a defect in a larger wood surface.
	Eased edge	The process of rounding or chamfering the sharp edges of a workpiece, often for safety or aesthetic reasons.
	Easing	The process of slightly rounding or smoothing the edges or corners of a piece of wood for improved safety and aesthetics.
	Edge banding	Thin strips of wood or synthetic material applied to the edges of plywood or other sheet goods to conceal the exposed layers.
	Edge treatment	The shaping or profiling of the edges of a piece of wood to create decorative or functional details, such as chamfers, roundovers, or ogees.
	Edger	A hand tool used to create clean and crisp edges on wood surfaces.
	Elbow grease	A colloquial term referring to physical effort or manual labor applied to woodworking tasks.
	Ellipse	A geometric shape resembling a flattened circle, often used as a design element in furniture or as a guide for shaping curved wood pieces.
	End cap	A decorative or protective covering placed at the end of a piece of wood or material to provide a finished look and protect against moisture or damage.
	End grain sealer	A specialized sealer or finish used to seal the exposed end grain of wood, preventing excessive absorption of moisture and reducing checking or splitting.
	End grain	The exposed cut ends of wood fibers, typically more porous and absorbent than the face or edge grain, requiring special treatment and consideration.
	End nipper	A type of pliers with cutting jaws that meet at the tips, used for cutting or nipping small wire, nails, or other materials.
	End vise	A woodworking vise mounted on the end of a workbench, used for securing long or irregularly shaped workpieces during various tasks.
	Epoxy filler	A two-part epoxy compound used to fill gaps, voids, or imperfections in wood surfaces before finishing or painting.
	Epoxy filler	A two-part epoxy-based paste or putty used to fill gaps, voids, or imperfections in wood, providing a strong and durable repair or patch.
	Epoxy resin	A two-part adhesive system that consists of a resin and a hardener, commonly used for bonding, filling gaps, or creating transparent finishes on wood.
	Exotic wood	Wood species that are not commonly found or native to the region where they are used, often prized for their unique appearance or characteristics.
	Face grain	The surface of the wood that is parallel to the growth rings of the tree, typically providing a smoother appearance.
	Face vise	A type of woodworking vise attached to the front edge of a workbench, used to secure workpieces during various tasks.
	Feather file	A file with parallel rows of teeth on one side and a smooth surface on the other, used for smoothing and shaping wood or metal.
	Feather joint	A type of joint where thin, overlapping wood strips are glued together to create a strong connection.
	Featherboard	A device with thin, flexible fingers or feathers used to apply pressure and hold a workpiece against a fence or guide during cutting or routing operations.
	Feathered edge	A smooth, tapered transition from a painted or finished surface to the bare wood, achieved by feathering the edges of the coating.
	Feathers	Thin strips of wood used to fill gaps or spaces in joints or seams.
	Fence	A straight guide or barrier used to keep the workpiece aligned and provide support during cutting or routing operations, typically found on table saws and routers.
	Figure	The unique pattern or markings in the grain of wood, such as curly, quilted, or spalted, which can enhance the visual appeal of a project.
	Finger joint	A joint where interlocking fingers are cut into the ends of two pieces of wood to create a strong connection.
	Finger plane	A small, handheld plane specifically designed for intricate or detailed work, such as shaping small curved surfaces or cleaning up joints.
	Flexcut	A brand of carving tools known for their ergonomic handles and high-quality blades, designed for ease of use and precision carving.
	Flitch	A stack of consecutive slices or boards cut from the same log, often used for matching grain patterns in woodworking projects.
	Flitch	A term used to describe a slice of wood that includes both the bark and the full width of the log, often used for veneer or decorative purposes.
	Flush trim bit	A router bit with a bearing at the tip used to trim or duplicate the edge of one workpiece to match another.
	Forstner bit	A specialized drill bit used for drilling flat-bottomed holes, often used for creating recesses or mortises.
	French cleat	A mounting system consisting of a beveled strip or bracket on the wall and a corresponding cleat on the back of a cabinet or other hanging object, providing secure and easily adjustable installation.
	French polish	A traditional finish technique where shellac is applied using a pad and rubbing motion to create a high-gloss, smooth surface on wood.
	French polish	A traditional method of applying a shellac finish to wood using a pad and friction.
	Fretwork	Intricate decorative patterns or designs created by cutting or carving thin strips of wood, often used in ornamental woodworking.
	Glue joint	A joint made by bonding two or more pieces of wood together using adhesive, creating a strong and durable connection.
	Glue squeeze-out	Excess glue that is forced out of a joint when pressure is applied, typically removed before the glue dries to ensure a clean, finished appearance.
	Glue-up	The process of joining multiple pieces of wood together using adhesive to create a larger panel or assembly.
	Gooseneck scraper	A specialized scraper tool with a curved shape, ideal for reaching and smoothing concave or curved surfaces.
	Gouge chisel	A carving chisel with a concave cutting edge, often used for removing material or shaping curved surfaces.
	Gouge sweep	The curvature or arc of a gouge blade, categorized by a number indicating its radius or shape, such as U or V sweeps.
	Gouge	A cutting tool with a curved blade used for carving or sculpting wood, often in a concave shape.
	Grain direction	The orientation of the wood fibers within a piece of wood, including parallel grain, cross grain, or end grain, which affects the wood's strength and working properties.
	Grain filler	A paste or compound used to fill the pores or open grain of wood, creating a smooth surface before applying a finish.
	Grain orientation	The direction in which the wood fibers run within a piece of wood, which affects its strength, stability, and working properties.
	Grain	The pattern or direction of wood fibers on a piece of wood.
	Green wood	Wood that has recently been cut from a living tree and has not undergone any drying or seasoning process, typically containing a higher moisture content.
	Grit	A measure of the coarseness or fineness of an abrasive material, typically expressed as a numerical value indicating the number of abrasive particles per square inch.
	Gunstock carving	A specialized carving technique used to shape and embellish the stock of a firearm, combining functionality with decorative elements.
	Hand drill	A manual, non-powered drilling tool operated by hand pressure or a hand-cranked mechanism, used for drilling small holes.
	Hand plane	A tool used for shaping, smoothing, and leveling wood surfaces by shaving off thin layers.
	Hand router	A handheld power tool with a rotating bit used for shaping, trimming, and routing wood.
	Hand screw clamp	A type of clamp with adjustable wooden jaws and long threaded screws, designed for securing irregularly shaped or delicate workpieces.
	Hand screw clamp	A versatile clamp with wooden jaws and large screws used to secure irregularly shaped or delicate workpieces.
	Hardboard	A type of engineered wood product made from compressed wood fibers, commonly used for backing or as a smooth surface for painting.
	Hardwood	Wood from deciduous trees, typically known for its density, durability, and rich color, such as oak, maple, or walnut.
	Heartwood	The inner, darker, and typically older part of a tree trunk, known for its increased strength and resistance to decay.
	Heat gun	A tool that blows hot air, used in woodworking for tasks such as removing paint, softening adhesives, or bending plastic materials.
	Hide glue	A traditional adhesive made from animal collagen that provides strong, reversible bonds and is often used in fine woodworking.
	Hobelspan	A German term meaning plane shaving
	Hook knife	A curved-blade knife used for carving or hollowing out concave shapes in wood, often used in spoon carving or sculpting.
	Hybrid wood	Wood that has been infused or impregnated with a synthetic material, often resulting in enhanced durability and resistance to rot or decay.
	Incised carving	A carving technique where lines or patterns are cut or engraved into the surface of wood, creating decorative textures or designs.
	Inclination scale	A scale or gauge on a tool, such as a bandsaw or drill press, that indicates the angle or tilt of the cutting or drilling operation.
	Incra	A brand specializing in precision woodworking tools and measuring systems, particularly known for their precision fences, miter gauges, and router tables.
	Infeed table	A support table or extension located in front of a power tool, such as a planer or jointer, to provide support for longer workpieces.
	Infill material	The material, such as wood or metal, used to fill the hollowed-out body of an infill plane for added weight and stability.
	Infill plane	A hand plane with a metal body filled with a separate infill material, such as wood or metal, for added stability and weight.
	Inlay banding	Decorative strips or veneers made from contrasting materials, such as wood, metal, or shell, that are set into a recessed groove in the surface of a workpiece.
	Inlay router bit	A specialized router bit designed to cut precise recesses for inlay materials, such as wood, metal, or shell.
	Inlay router kit	A set of router bits and templates used to create precise recesses for inlay materials, allowing for intricate and decorative inlay work.
	Inlay router	A specialized router with a bearing-guided bit used for creating recesses or channels for inlay materials in wood surfaces.
	Inlay	Decorative material, such as wood, metal, or shell, set into a recess or groove in wood to create intricate patterns or designs.
	Inshave	A curved-bladed hand tool used for carving and shaping concave surfaces in woodworking.
	Insulation tape	A self-adhesive tape used to protect the edges or surfaces of wood during finishing or painting to prevent paint or finish from bleeding.
	Inverted router	A router that is mounted upside down in a router table, allowing the woodworker to guide the workpiece over the stationary router bit.
	Inward grain	A term used to describe wood grain that slopes toward the center of a piece of wood, typically found in burls or irregular growth patterns.
	Japanese pull saw	A type of saw with a thin, flexible blade that cuts on the pull stroke, known for its precision and clean cuts.
	Jig	A device or tool used to guide a cutting or shaping operation, ensuring accuracy and repeatability.
	Jigsaw	A power tool with a reciprocating blade used for making curved or intricate cuts in wood.
	Joiner's mallet	A heavy wooden or rubber-headed mallet used by woodworkers to strike chisels or drive joints together.
	Joinery	The art or technique of joining or connecting wood pieces together to create a structure or assembly.
	Kerf splitter	A thin piece of material inserted into the kerf of a workpiece to prevent binding or kickback during cutting operations.
	Kerf width	The thickness of the slot or groove made by a saw blade during cutting, often measured to determine the appropriate size for joinery or fitting.
	Kerf	The width of the cut made by a saw blade.
	Kerfboard	A board or strip of wood placed in the kerf of a cut or saw kerf to prevent binding or pinching of the saw blade during the cutting process.
	Kerfing plane	A specialized hand plane used for creating thin kerfs or grooves in wood.
	Kerfing	Making a series of closely spaced cuts along a piece of wood to allow it to bend or curve more easily.
	Kickback pawls	Safety devices on a table saw that prevent kickback by gripping the wood and stopping its backward movement.
	Kickback	The sudden and forceful backward movement of a workpiece caused by the spinning blade or cutting tool catching or binding.
	Kiln-dried	Wood that has been dried in a controlled environment, typically in a kiln, to reduce moisture content and stabilize the wood for woodworking purposes.
	Knot	A portion of a branch or limb that becomes enclosed in a piece of wood as it grows, often characterized by a circular pattern and harder texture.
	Kreg jig	A specialized tool used for creating pocket holes, allowing for hidden and secure joinery in woodworking projects.
	Laminated wood	A type of wood made by bonding together thin layers or veneers using adhesive, creating a strong and stable composite material.
	Laminated wood	Wood composed of thin layers or veneers glued together, creating a stronger and more stable material.
	Lamination press	A device or machine used to apply even pressure and heat to laminated or veneered panels, ensuring proper adhesion and flatness.
	Lamination	The process of gluing together multiple layers of wood to create a thicker, stronger, or more stable piece of material.
	Lathe chuck key	A wrench-like tool used to tighten or loosen the jaws of a lathe chuck, allowing for secure gripping of the workpiece.
	Lathe chuck	A device attached to a lathe spindle used to hold and secure the workpiece during woodturning operations.
	Live center	A rotating center attachment used in woodturning that supports the workpiece while allowing it to spin freely on a lathe.
	Live edge	The natural, untrimmed edge of a piece of wood that retains the original shape and characteristics of the tree it came from.
	Lock miter joint	A type of joint that uses angled cuts to create a strong and secure connection between two pieces of wood, often used in box or frame construction.
	Log cabin chinking	The process of filling the gaps or joints between logs in a log cabin with chinking material, such as mortar, cement, or specialized sealants, to provide insulation and weatherproofing.
	Log cabin joint	A traditional corner joint used in log cabin construction, where notches are cut into the logs to interlock and provide stability.
	Luthier	A craftsman or artisan who specializes in the construction and repair of stringed musical instruments, such as guitars or violins.
	Luthier's rasp	A specialized rasp designed specifically for shaping and smoothing wood surfaces in instrument making and repair.
	Marquetry	The art of creating decorative designs or patterns on wood surfaces using different colored veneers.
	Milling machine	A power tool or machine used for shaping or cutting wood, metal, or other materials with rotary cutters or milling bits.
	Milling	The process of shaping, cutting, or preparing wood using specialized machinery, such as a jointer, planer, or milling machine.
	Miter gauge	A device used to guide and hold workpieces at various angles for accurate miter cuts on a table saw or other power tools.
	Miter joint	A joint formed by joining two pieces of wood at a 45-degree angle to create a right angle.
	Miter lock joint	A type of joint often used in picture frames, where the mitered corners are reinforced with splines or other mechanical fasteners to provide strength and stability.
	Moisture content	The amount of water or moisture present in wood, measured as a percentage of the wood's weight.
	Mold release agent	A substance applied to a mold or surface before casting resin or other materials to prevent them from sticking and aid in easy removal.
	Moldings	Decorative trim or profiles made of wood used to enhance the appearance of furniture, cabinetry, or architectural elements.
	Mortise and tenon	A traditional joint where a projecting tenon on one piece of wood fits into a corresponding hole (mortise) on another piece.
	Mortise chisel	A chisel with a thick, square-shaped blade used for cutting rectangular recesses or mortises in wood for joinery.
	Mortise gauge	A marking tool with two adjustable pins or cutters used to accurately scribe the outline of a mortise on a workpiece.
	Nap	The texture or pile of a fabric, such as sandpaper or a paint roller cover, that affects the surface finish or material removal rate.
	Offcut	A leftover or discarded piece of wood or material from a larger project or cutting operation.
	Oilstone	A type of sharpening stone made from natural or synthetic abrasive materials, typically used with oil as a lubricant for sharpening blades or tools.
	Olive oil finish	A natural finish for wood that involves applying olive oil to enhance the grain and provide a lustrous appearance.
	Open-grain wood	Wood with large, visible pores, such as oak or mahogany, often requiring grain filler for a smooth finish.
	Outboard turning	Woodturning performed on the end or outer section of a workpiece, typically requiring the use of a specialized attachment or lathe configuration.
	Outfeed roller	A roller or series of rollers positioned at the outfeed end of a table saw or other power tool to support and guide the workpiece as it exits the machine.
	Outfeed table	A flat, extended surface positioned behind a power tool, such as a table saw or planer, to support and catch the workpiece as it exits the machine.
	Overarm dust collection	A dust collection system on a table saw or router table that collects dust and debris directly from above the cutting area.
	Overhang	The distance that a component, such as a shelf or countertop, extends beyond its support or framework.
	Panel gauge	A marking tool with a long beam and an adjustable marking pin or cutter, used to mark lines parallel to the edge of a workpiece.
	Panel raising bit	A router bit with a profiled cutting edge specifically designed for shaping the edges of panels, typically used in cabinetmaking.
	Panel raising	The process of shaping the edge of a panel or door to create a decorative profile, often done using a router or table saw.
	Panel saw	A large, long-handled saw used for making straight cuts in large panels or sheets of wood.
	Paraffin wax	A wax-like material used as a lubricant or protective coating on woodworking tools and surfaces to reduce friction and prevent rust.
	Parallel clamps	Heavy-duty clamps with parallel jaws that remain parallel when tightened, providing even pressure distribution and stability during glue-ups.
	Parquetry	A decorative technique where small, geometric wood pieces are arranged to create intricate patterns or designs on a larger surface.
	Peening	A process used to reshape or flatten the edge of a tool, such as a chisel or axe, by striking it with a hammer or peening tool.
	Pen blank	A small, rectangular piece of wood, acrylic, or other material used for turning pens or other small projects on a lathe.
	Pen turning	The process of turning small wooden blanks on a lathe to create pens, pencils, or other writing instruments, often using specialized pen-turning kits.
	Penetrating oil finish	A type of finish that penetrates the wood fibers, enhancing the natural beauty and providing a low sheen, matte appearance.
	Pergola	An outdoor structure consisting of vertical posts or columns supporting an open lattice or crossbeam roof, often used for shade or as a garden feature.
	Picture frame clamp	A clamp designed specifically for gluing and clamping picture frames together, ensuring squareness and alignment during assembly.
	Picture frame molding	Decorative molding used to create frames for artwork, mirrors, or photographs.
	Pilot hole	A small hole drilled into wood before driving a screw or fastener, providing a guide for the screw and reducing the risk of splitting the wood.
	Pitch	The angle or slope of the teeth on a saw blade or other cutting tool, determining the aggressiveness and efficiency of the cutting action.
	Pith	The central, softer portion of a tree trunk, often avoided or removed in woodworking due to its instability.
	Plunge router	A router with a base that allows the bit to be lowered or plunged into the workpiece, enabling cutting or shaping in the middle of a surface.
	Power feeder	A device or attachment used on power tools, such as a table saw or jointer, to provide consistent and controlled feeding of the workpiece.
	Push stick	A safety tool used to push wood through a table saw or other power tools, keeping hands a safe distance from the blade.
	Pyrography	The art of decorating wood by burning designs or patterns using a heated tool, also known as woodburning.
	Quartersawn	Wood that is cut from a log at an angle of 45 degrees or more to the growth rings, resulting in a straight grain pattern and increased stability.
	Rabbet	A notch or groove cut along the edge or end of a piece of wood to allow for another piece to fit into it.
	Rail	A horizontal member of a frame, often used in furniture construction, such as the horizontal pieces of a door or the top and bottom rails of a cabinet.
	Raised panel	A decorative panel commonly used in cabinet doors, where the center section is raised to add depth and visual interest.
	Rasp file	A coarse file or shaping tool with raised teeth or ridges used for rough shaping and rapid material removal in woodworking.
	Rasp plane	A specialized plane with a roughened surface, typically equipped with a removable rasp, used for shaping or smoothing curved surfaces.
	Rasp	A coarse cutting tool with raised teeth used for shaping and smoothing wood, typically made of metal or abrasive material.
	Reclaimed wood	Wood salvaged from old structures, such as barns or buildings, and repurposed for use in woodworking projects.
	Relief carving	A carving technique where material is selectively removed from the surface of a wood piece to create a three-dimensional design or pattern.
	Relief cut	A shallow cut made in wood to release tension or stress, often used to prevent splitting or warping during drying or shaping.
	Resaw capacity	The maximum height or thickness of wood that a bandsaw or other cutting tool can effectively resaw or cut into thinner pieces.
	Resaw fence	A tall, auxiliary fence attached to a bandsaw that helps guide and support the workpiece when resawing thick boards into thinner slices.
	Resawing	The process of cutting a board or piece of wood along its thickness to create thinner slices or veneers.
	Resin casting	The process of pouring liquid resin into a mold to create solid, transparent, or colored objects, often used for decorative inlays.
	Resin filler	A compound or mixture used to fill knots, cracks, or voids in wood, typically made with epoxy resin and wood dust or filler material.
	Resin infusion	A technique used in woodworking and other industries where resin is drawn or forced into a composite material, such as wood or fiberglass, through vacuum pressure.
	Rip cut	A cut made along the length of a piece of wood, parallel to the grain.
	Riving knife	A safety device on a table saw positioned behind the blade to prevent wood from pinching or binding during cutting.
	Riving knife	A safety device on a table saw that prevents the workpiece from pinching or binding against the back of the blade, reducing the risk of kickback.
	Riving	The act of splitting or cleaving wood along the grain using wedges, mallets, or specialized tools, often employed in traditional woodworking or timber framing.
	Router sled	A sled-like device used in conjunction with a router to flatten large or irregularly shaped pieces of wood.
	Router table	A stationary platform with a mounted router used to guide and control the tool for precise shaping, cutting, and profiling operations.
	Router	A power tool used to hollow out or shape wood using a rotating bit.
	Sanding block	A tool used to hold sandpaper and provide a flat surface for hand sanding.
	Sanding sealer	A thin coat of finish applied to wood before sanding to seal the surface and provide a smoother finish.
	Sash clamp	A long bar clamp with adjustable jaws used for clamping large workpieces or multiple pieces together during glue-ups.
	Sash cramp	A large, adjustable clamp used for securing larger workpieces or assemblies during glue-ups or woodworking operations.
	Saw kerf	The width of the cut made by a saw blade, often used to determine the amount of material removed during cutting.
	Sawhorse	A sturdy frame or support used to hold wood during cutting or assembly.
	Scorp	A curved-handled hand tool with a blade shaped like a shallow gouge, used for hollowing out or shaping curved surfaces in woodworking.
	Scraper plane	A hand plane with a specially shaped sole and blade designed for smoothing surfaces by scraping off thin shavings.
	Scraper plane	A specialized hand plane with a scraping blade instead of a cutting blade, used for smoothing and removing fine shavings from wood surfaces.
	Scratch stock	A small, handheld tool with a profiled cutter used for creating custom moldings, decorative edges, or grooves in wood.
	Scratch stock	A small, handheld tool with a thin, replaceable blade used for creating custom moldings or decorative profiles on wood surfaces.
	Scribe	The act of marking or scoring a line along a workpiece to indicate where it needs to be cut, shaped, or joined.
	Scroll saw	A power tool with a fine, narrow blade used for intricate and detailed cutting in wood.
	Segmented turning	A technique in woodturning where multiple pieces of wood are glued together in various configurations to create intricate patterns or designs.
	Shellac	A natural resin-based finish that is typically dissolved in alcohol and used to provide a protective and glossy surface on wood.
	Silhouette	A decorative or ornamental profile or outline, often used in scrollwork or fretwork designs.
	Skew angle	The angle at which the cutting edge of a skew chisel or skew plane is ground, affecting its cutting properties and versatility.
	Skew chisel	A chisel with a beveled cutting edge set at an angle to the tool's body, used for fine detail work and clean cuts.
	Sloyd knife	A specific type of knife used in traditional Scandinavian woodworking, featuring a narrow, curved blade and a wooden handle, ideal for carving and shaping wood.
	Soft-close hinge	A type of hinge that slows down the closing action of a cabinet door, preventing it from slamming shut.
	Softwood	Wood from coniferous trees (e.g., pine, cedar, spruce) that is typically lighter, less dense, and easier to work with than hardwood.
	Spindle gouge	A type of gouge specifically designed for turning spindles on a lathe, with a shallow flute and steeply angled bevel.
	Spindle sander	A power tool with a rotating drum covered in sandpaper used for sanding curved or irregular surfaces.
	Spindle sander	A stationary sanding machine with a rotating spindle and sanding sleeves of various sizes, used for smoothing and shaping curved surfaces.
	Spindle	A cylindrical rod or turned piece used as a decorative element in furniture or as a support in a staircase.
	Spline	A thin strip of wood inserted into a groove or slot to strengthen a joint or provide alignment.
	Spokeshave	A hand tool with a curved blade and handles used for shaping and smoothing concave or convex surfaces, such as chair spindles or curved components.
	Spur	A pointed projection or device on a drill bit or auger used to help guide and stabilize the tool during drilling.
	Square hole	A precisely cut hole with four equal sides, often created using a mortising chisel and mallet.
	Stile	A vertical framing member, typically found in doors, cabinet doors, or paneling, forming the sides of the frame or structure.
	Tack hammer	A small hammer with a magnetized face used for driving small tacks or brads into wood without the need for additional tools.
	Tambour door	A flexible door made of interconnected slats or strips that roll up and disappear into a cabinet or piece of furniture, often used in roll-top desks or cabinets.
	Tang	The portion of a chisel, file, or other tool that extends into the handle, providing a secure connection.
	Tapered leg	A table or furniture leg that gradually narrows in width from top to bottom, often adding an elegant touch to the design.
	Tear-out	Splintering or roughness of wood fibers that occurs when cutting or planing against the grain, resulting in a less smooth surface.
	Template guide	A guide or collar that attaches to a router base, allowing the router bit to follow a template or pattern, ensuring accurate and consistent cuts.
	Template routing	A technique where a router is guided along a template or pattern to shape or replicate the same profile on multiple workpieces.
	Template	A pattern or guide used to replicate a specific shape or design onto multiple workpieces, ensuring consistency and accuracy.
	Tenon saw	A fine-toothed hand saw with a stiffened back and a narrow blade, used for making precise cuts in joinery and tenon joints.
	Tenon shoulder	The flat or square surface of a tenon joint that provides support and strength by bearing against the corresponding surface of the mortise.
	Threaded insert	A metal fastener with internal threads used to provide a secure and durable connection in wood.
	Threaded rod	A long, cylindrical rod with threads along its length, often used in woodworking for fastening or reinforcing joints.
	Throat depth	The distance between the blade or cutting edge and the vertical support structure on a bandsaw, scrollsaw, or coping saw.
	Throat plate	A removable insert on a table saw or other power tools that surrounds the blade, reducing tear-out and providing support.
	Through dovetail	A type of dovetail joint where the pins and tails extend all the way through the workpiece, providing strength and visual appeal.
	Through tenon	A type of tenon that extends completely through a piece of wood, often used in joinery for strength and visual appeal.
	Trammel points	Adjustable points used to draw large circles or arcs on wood surfaces, often used in conjunction with a router or compass.
	Truing	The process of ensuring that a surface or edge is perfectly flat, level, or square, often achieved through planing, sanding, or jointing.
	Tung oil	A natural oil derived from the seeds of the tung tree, used as a finish for wood to enhance its appearance, provide water resistance, and protect against wear and tear.
	Turning blank	A block or piece of wood used for woodturning on a lathe to create cylindrical or rounded objects, such as bowls or spindles.
	Turning chisels	A set of specialized chisels used for woodturning on a lathe, with various shapes and profiles for different cutting tasks.
	Turning	The process of shaping wood on a lathe to create rounded or cylindrical objects, such as bowls, spindles, or table legs.
	Undercut saw	A specialized saw with a narrow blade that allows cutting into tight spaces or making precise cuts without damaging surrounding material.
	Undercut	A technique where material is removed from the underside or backside of a wood component to create a recessed or decorative detail.
	Undercutting	The process of removing material from underneath or behind a surface, often used to create a recess or relief in carving or joinery.
	Upside-down router	A router that is mounted to a router table with the bit facing upwards, allowing the workpiece to be passed over the bit for shaping or profiling.
	Urethane finish	A type of protective finish that contains urethane resins and offers excellent durability and resistance to water and chemicals.
	V-groove	A groove or channel with a V-shaped profile often created using a V-groove router bit or a table saw.
	V-tool	A carving tool with a V-shaped cutting edge, used for creating fine lines, lettering, or decorative grooves in wood.
	Vacuum clamp	A clamping system that uses suction to secure workpieces, typically used for holding flat or non-porous materials during machining or assembly.
	Vacuum press	A system that uses vacuum pressure to apply even pressure and adhesion between layers of veneer, laminates, or other materials.
	Varnish	A transparent or translucent finish composed of resins and oils, often used to provide protection and enhance the natural beauty of wood.
	Veneer hammer	A specialized hammer with a wide, flat head used for pressing and smoothing veneer onto a substrate during veneering.
	Veneer press	A device or machine used to apply even pressure and adhesive to thin wood veneer sheets, ensuring proper adhesion to a substrate.
	Veneer saw	A small, fine-toothed saw designed for cutting delicate veneer sheets or trimming edges during veneering projects.
	Veneer	A thin layer of wood applied to the surface of another wood to enhance its appearance.
	Weathered wood	Wood that has been intentionally or naturally aged or weathered, resulting in a rustic appearance with worn texture and grayish coloration.
	Weathering	The natural process of wood's exposure to the elements, resulting in changes in appearance and color over time.
	Whetstone	A sharpening stone used for honing and sharpening the cutting edges of tools such as chisels, plane blades, or knives.
	Whisker biscuit	A small, round disc with bristles or whiskers used in archery and woodworking as an arrow rest or guide for cutting or routing channels.
	Whisker	A small, thin shaving or splinter of wood that protrudes from a surface after planing, indicating an area that requires further smoothing.
	Whittling	The process of shaping or carving wood by removing thin shavings or small chips using a knife or other hand tools.
	Winding sticks	A pair of straight, narrow wooden boards used to detect and correct twists or warping in lumber or workpieces.
	Wipe-on finish	A type of wood finish, often oil-based, that is applied by wiping it onto the wood surface using a cloth or brush.
	Wood conditioner	A pre-stain treatment applied to porous wood surfaces to promote even absorption of stain or finish, reducing blotching or uneven coloration.
	Wood grain filler	A paste or compound used to fill the pores of open-grained wood before applying a finish.
	Wood moisture meter	A handheld device used to measure the moisture content of wood, helping determine its suitability for various woodworking processes.
	Woodburning tool	A heated tool with interchangeable tips used for creating detailed designs or patterns by burning them onto wood surfaces.
	Woodburning	The technique of using a heated metal tool, called a woodburning pen, to create decorative patterns or designs by burning into wood.
	Wooden plane	A hand tool used for shaping or smoothing wood surfaces, consisting of a wooden body with an adjustable blade or iron.
	Woodturning chuck	A specialized chuck or jaw system used to secure and hold workpieces on a lathe during woodturning operations, providing stability and versatility.
	Woodturning	The process of shaping a spinning piece of wood on a lathe to create symmetrical, cylindrical, or sculptural forms.
	Woodworker's bench	A specialized workbench designed with features and vises tailored for woodworking tasks, such as cutting, planing, and joinery.
	Woodworking vice	A clamping device attached to a workbench, used to hold and secure workpieces during various woodworking operations.
	Woodworking vise	A bench vise designed specifically for woodworking applications, typically featuring large, flat jaws and a quick-release mechanism for secure clamping.
	Workbench holdfast	A clamping device that holds a workpiece securely in place on a workbench using downward pressure.
	Workbench vice	A clamping device attached to a workbench to hold and secure workpieces during various woodworking tasks.
	Workbench	A sturdy table-like surface used for woodworking projects, assembly, and repairs.
	Workpiece hold-down	A device or clamp used to secure a workpiece in place, ensuring stability and safety during cutting or shaping operations.
	Workpiece orientation	The position or alignment of a workpiece in relation to a tool or operation, such as face up, face down, or edge against a fence.
	Workpiece orientation	The specific arrangement or position of a workpiece in relation to the woodworking tools or operations being performed.
	Workpiece registration	The process of aligning and positioning a workpiece accurately in relation to a tool or cutting operation for precise and consistent results.
	Workpiece sled	A sled-like device used in conjunction with a table saw or router table to safely and accurately cut or shape workpieces.
	Workpiece stop	A device or block used to position and hold a workpiece in a specific location during cutting, drilling, or shaping operations.
	Workpiece support	A device, attachment, or mechanism used to provide additional support and stability to a workpiece during cutting or shaping operations.
	Workpiece	The piece of wood being worked on or shaped during a woodworking project.
	Workshop ventilation	The process of maintaining proper airflow and air quality in a woodworking workshop, often achieved through the use of fans, air filtration systems, or dust collection systems.
	Yew wood	A dense, durable, and fine-grained wood obtained from yew trees, often used in decorative woodworking and turnery.
	Z-saw	A specialized Japanese saw with a flexible blade and a distinctive Z-shaped tooth pattern, ideal for precise and smooth cuts.
	Zebrawood	An exotic hardwood with a distinct striped appearance, characterized by dark brown to black stripes against a pale yellow or golden background.
	Zero clearance throat plate	A throat plate or insert for a table saw or router table that is customized to closely fit around the cutting tool, reducing tear-out and improving cutting precision.
	Zero-clearance insert	A removable throat plate or insert for a table saw that provides a close fit around the blade, reducing tear-out and improving cutting precision.
	Zero-offset blade	A table saw blade with teeth that are precisely aligned with the blade's body, reducing the risk of binding and improving cutting accuracy.
	Zirconia sandpaper	A type of abrasive material made with zirconia alumina, known for its durability and long-lasting performance in sanding wood and other materials.
	Zirconium oxide sandpaper	A type of abrasive paper or cloth that utilizes zirconium oxide as the primary abrasive material, known for its durability and resistance to heat.
	Ziricote	A dense, exotic hardwood known for its striking appearance, featuring dark brown to black streaks and a highly figured grain pattern.
	Zona saw	A brand known for their range of precision saws and cutting tools, suitable for various woodworking and craft applications.
B	Back bevel	A secondary bevel on the backside of a chisel or plane blade, used to enhance cutting performance and reduce tear-out.
C	C-clamp	A type of clamp shaped like the letter C used to hold two pieces of wood together during glue-up or assembly.
D	Dado blade	A specialized circular saw blade designed for making wide, flat-bottomed grooves or dadoes in wood.
E	Ear protection	Safety equipment, such as earmuffs or earplugs, used to protect the ears from excessive noise produced during woodworking operations.
F	Face frame	A frame typically made of solid wood attached to the front of cabinet boxes, providing support and a decorative element.
G	Glue brush	A brush with stiff bristles used for applying glue to woodworking joints or surfaces.
H	Half-lap joint	A joint where half the thickness of each piece is removed, allowing them to overlap and create a flush, strong connection.
I	Incannel gouge	A carving gouge with a concave or inwardly curved cutting edge, used for shaping the concave surfaces of wood.
J	Janka hardness rating	A standardized measure of the hardness of different wood species, indicating their resistance to denting and wear.
K	Kerf bending	A technique where a series of closely spaced cuts, or kerfs, are made on one side of a wood piece to facilitate bending.
L	Laminated veneer lumber (LVL)	An engineered wood product made by layering thin wood veneers and bonding them with adhesive to create strong and stable structural members.
M	Mallet	A hammer-like tool with a large head, typically made of wood or rubber, used to strike chisels or drive wooden joints.
N	Nailer	A power tool or pneumatic device used to drive nails into wood quickly and efficiently.
O	Oblong hole	A hole with elongated or oval shape, typically used to accommodate wood movement in joinery or fastening applications.
P	Padauk	A type of hardwood known for its vibrant reddish-orange color often used in furniture and cabinetry.
Q	Quarter sawing	A method of cutting logs into quarters and then slicing them to create boards with vertical grain orientation, resulting in increased stability and distinctive figuring.
R	Rabbet joint	A joint created by cutting a groove or recess along the edge of a workpiece to allow another piece to fit into it, typically used in cabinetry and box-making.
S	Saddle joint	A type of joint where two pieces of wood are joined together at a right angle, resembling the shape of a saddle.
T	Tack cloth	A sticky cloth used to remove dust and fine particles from wood surfaces before applying finishes, ensuring a clean and smooth finish.
U	Ultraviolet (UV) resistance	The ability of a finish or wood treatment to withstand the damaging effects of ultraviolet radiation from sunlight, reducing fading or degradation.
V	V-groove bit	A router bit with a V-shaped cutting edge used for creating decorative V-grooves or chamfers on the edges of wood or panels.
W	Wainscoting	Decorative wood paneling applied to the lower portion of a wall, typically extending to chair rail height or higher.
X	X-brace	A diagonal brace or support in the form of an X used to add stability and strength to a structure
Y	Yardstick	A measuring tool typically one yard (or three feet) in length, used for general measurement and layout tasks in woodworking.
Z	Z-axis	In woodworking CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines, the Z-axis refers to the vertical axis of movement, controlling the up-and-down motion of the cutting tool.

Why Use a Woodworking Glossary?

Like any specialized field, woodworking comes with its terminology. Understanding these terms is essential for effective communication, learning, and navigating the world of woodworking.

Whether reading project plans, following tutorials, or seeking advice from fellow woodworkers, having a solid grasp of woodworking terminology will enhance your understanding and confidence in the craft.

Our woodworking glossary is a valuable resource to bridge the gap between technical jargon and practical knowledge.

How to Use the Woodworking Glossary

The Woodworking Glossary is designed to be user-friendly and accessible. You can easily navigate through the glossary using the alphabetical table layout.

Scroll or use the search function to find the term you want. Each term is accompanied by a clear and concise definition, providing a quick reference point.

We hope this Woodworking Glossary proves to be a valuable resource as you explore the world of woodworking. By familiarizing yourself with the terminology used in this craft, you’ll gain confidence in discussing woodworking techniques.