ax

ax · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A tool with a heavy metal blade on a handle, used for chopping wood, cutting down trees, or splitting logs.

  2. 2.

    (Informal) A musical instrument, especially an electric guitar or saxophone.

  3. 3.

    (Informal) The act of dismissing or cutting; a reduction in jobs or budget.

  4. 4.

    To cut or chop with an ax.

  5. 5.

    (Informal) To dismiss someone from a job; to cancel or eliminate.

Forms

plural: axes

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    have an ax to grind — To have a personal reason or motive for doing something.
  • •
    get the ax — To be fired or dismissed.
  • •
    ax to grind — A personal interest or selfish motive.

Related words

See also: axe, chop, hatchet
Synonyms: axe, hatchet, tomahawk

Etymology

From Old English æx, from Proto-Germanic akusī, related to Latin ascia ("ax"). The spelling "ax" is American English; "axe" is British English (though both are used in both regions).