rule joint

noun

1. (in carpentry and joinery) a joint between two hinged pieces, as between the center and end leaves of a table, consisting of a quarter round and fillet fitting against a cove and fillet.
2. a pivoted joint between two strips of wood placed end to end, as in a carpenter's folding rule.

Word History and Origins

Origin of rule joint¹

First recorded in 1775–85

Example Sentences

The only other one known to me which folds in four, folds by means of the rule joint, and is somewhat objectionable, inasmuch as it must either be made of unnecessarily thick and cumbersome wire, to stand the strain, or if made, as it should be, of the proper sized wire and of light construction, it is sure to break out at one or the other of the joints.

From Project Gutenberg

The Rule Joint Hinge is used to connect the top and the drop leaf of a table in cases where continuity of design is desired, so that the edge of the top and the leaf will show an ovolo moulding when the table is either open or closed.

From Project Gutenberg