tongue and groove

noun

: a joint made by a tongue on one edge of a board fitting into a corresponding groove on the edge of another board
tongue-and-groove adjective

Examples of tongue and groove in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Upstairs bedrooms have access to one of the multiple sun decks, while another bedroom skews from the overall design palette—it’s completely paneled in tongue and groove pine paneling, imbuing the space with a woodsy, cabin-like feel. Tori Latham, Robb Report, 12 Mar. 2025 It's finished in tongue and groove cedar siding and metal, and is topped by a metal roof. Adam Williams, New Atlas, 15 Jan. 2025 Installation can be completed in 30 minutes due to the simple tongue and groove design. Addie Morton, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 July 2023

Word History

First Known Use

1860, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of tongue and groove was in 1860

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Cite this Entry

“Tongue and groove.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tongue%20and%20groove. Accessed 8 Sep. 2025.

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