A rabbet (also known as rebate) is a recess or groove cut into the edge of a piece of machineable material, usually wood. When viewed in cross-section, a rabbet is two-sided and open to the edge or end of the surface into which it is cut.

The spelling rabbet is probably a derivation of rebate, the latter being more common outside of North America.

An example of the use of a rabbet is in a glazing bar where it makes provision for the insertion of the pane of glass and putty. It may also accommodate the edge of the back panel of a cabinet. It is also used in door and casement window jambs.

Methods

• Electric router using a straight or rebate bit
• Rebate plane or a shoulder plane
• Circular saw with multiple passes (depending on width and depth)
• Dado set in a single pass muff hole
• Spindle moulder
• Hand saw and chisel
• Bandsaw