ax

[æks]

ax Definition

a tool used for chopping wood, typically with a long handle and a blade that is wider at the top.

Using ax: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "ax" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  He used an ax to chop down the tree.

• Example

  The firewood was split with an ax.

• Example

  She sharpened the ax before starting to chop the wood.

ax Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for ax

• hatchet
• chopper

Phrases with ax

• bury the hatchet

  to make peace or end a quarrel

  Example

  After years of feuding, they finally decided to bury the hatchet and reconcile.

• have an ax to grind

  to have a hidden personal motive or selfish interest in something

  Example

  I don't trust his opinion on the matter because he clearly has an ax to grind.

• swing the ax

  to take decisive action, especially involving cutting costs or reducing jobs

  Example

  The company had to swing the ax and lay off a significant number of employees to stay afloat.

Origins of ax

from Old English 'æx'

📌

Summary: ax in Brief

An 'ax' [æks] is a tool used for chopping wood, typically with a long handle and a blade that is wider at the top. It is commonly used for splitting firewood or felling trees. Phrases like 'bury the hatchet' and 'have an ax to grind' use 'ax' metaphorically to denote making peace or having a hidden personal motive, respectively.