Definitions

1. noun

A sharp, narrow tool, especially a small, pointed file, used for removing small amounts of material, as from a rough edge or a surface.

“The carpenter used a shavetail to smooth out the rough edges of the wooden beam.”

2. noun

A railway engineer’s assistant who helps control the speed of a train by adjusting the brakes, especially when descending a steep slope.

“The shavetail helped the engineer slow down the train as it approached the steep hill.”