Dowels are small cylindrical rods that are used to strengthen joints between two pieces of wood. They come in different sizes and materials. There are many synonyms for dowels, including pegs, rods, brads, pins, nails, spikes, and sticks. Pegs are usually smaller than dowels, while rods are sturdier and thicker. Brads are thin and sharp, pins are long and slender, and nails are typically much larger. Spikes are heavy-duty and used for heavy-duty construction work. On the other hand, sticks are unrefined versions of dowels. Despite their differences, these synonyms serve the same purpose in woodworking, reinforcing and stabilizing joints between pieces of wood.