Abstract: A joining element (21) for joining two workpieces (1, 3), which each are provided at the ends thereof with a groove (11, 13), the grooves being aligned with one another for joining at the contact surfaces, has a disk-like configuration and is dimensioned such that it can be driven or stricken into the grooves. On the lateral surfaces, the disk-like element comprises rib-like elevations (23, 25) extending substantially in the driving direction, wherein the elevations, viewed in the driving direction and from the connection of the two workpieces, are configured to converge obliquely or in a curved manner at least along one section.