axis

[ˈæksɪs]

axis Definition

  • 1an imaginary line about which a body rotates.
  • 2a central point or principle around which something revolves or is arranged.

Using axis: Examples

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

  • Example

    The Earth rotates on its axis once every 24 hours.

  • Example

    The political axis of the country has shifted to the left.

  • Example

    The X-axis and Y-axis are used in graphing to plot points.

axis Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for axis

Phrases with axis

  • a term used by former US President George W. Bush to describe countries that he believed supported terrorism and threatened world peace

    Example

    The US government labeled Iran, Iraq, and North Korea as the axis of evil.

  • axis mundi

    a concept found in many cultures and religions, referring to a central point connecting the heavens and the earth

    Example

    The World Tree is often seen as an axis mundi in various mythologies.

  • axis powers

    a military alliance between Germany, Italy, and Japan during World War II

    Example

    The Axis Powers were defeated by the Allied Powers in 1945.

Origins of axis

from Latin 'axis', meaning 'axle'

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Summary: axis in Brief

An 'axis' [ˈæksɪs] is an imaginary line about which a body rotates, such as the Earth's axis. It can also refer to a central point or principle around which something revolves or is arranged, like the political axis of a country. Phrases like 'axis of evil' and 'axis mundi' use 'axis' to denote a central point of reference, while 'axis powers' refers to a military alliance during World War II.

How do native speakers use this expression?