The jointer derives its name from its primary function of producing flat edges on boards prior to joining them edge-to-edge to produce wider boards. The use of this term probably arises from the name of a type of hand plane, the jointer plane, which is also used primarily for this purpose.

The jointer is used to flatten one face and square up one edge and the planer is then used to make the second face flat and parallel to the first. … And speaking of thickness, a jointer will not allow you to easily thickness boards to a precise dimension. A planer on the other hand was born for the task of thicknessing.

A joiner is an artisan who builds things by joining pieces of wood, particularly lighter and more ornamental work than that done by a carpenter, including furniture and the “fittings” of a house, ship, etc. … In the UK, an apprentice of wood occupations couldchoose to study bench joinery or site carpentry and joinery.