dado

¹da·do

noun \ˈdā-(ˌ)dō\

plural da·does

Definition of DADO

1

a : the part of a pedestal of a column above the base

b : the lower part of an interior wall when specially decorated or faced; also : the decoration adorning this part of a wall

2

: a rectangular groove cut to make a joint in woodworking; specifically : one cut across the grain

Illustration of DADO

Origin of DADO

Italian, die, plinth

First Known Use: 1664

²dado

transitive verb

da·doedda·do·ing

Definition of DADO

1

: to provide with a dado

2

a : to set into a groove

b : to cut a dado in (as a plank)

First Known Use of DADO

1881

dado

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

In Classical architecture, the plain portion of the pedestal of a column, between the base and the cornice (or cap). In later architecture, a dado is a wall's paneled or decorated lower part, up to 2–3 ft (60–90 cm) above the floor and defined by a horizontal molding. Interior walls were so treated especially in the 16th–18th century. In carpentry, a dado is a rectangular groove cut across the grain of a wood member.