Ax

/æks/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A tool typically used for chopping, splitting, or cutting wood, consisting of a heavy blade attached to a long handle.
He swung the ax to chop down the old tree in the backyard.
A symbol of authority or the power to enforce an action, often used metaphorically.
The manager took the ax to the project after the budget was cut.
An expression often used in the context of being dismissed or fired from a job.
After the downturn, several employees received the ax from the company.
verb
To cut or chop with an ax.
He axed the branches off the tree to clear the path.
To terminate or remove (something, such as a job or policy).
The board decided to ax the proposal after much debate.

Etymology

Middle English: from Old English æx, of Germanic origin.

Common Phrases and Expressions

ax to grind:
To have a personal interest in something, often implying a hidden agenda.
hit the ax:
To be fired from a job.
ax out:
To eliminate or remove something.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

Guitar.
He's bringing his ax to the gig tonight.
To fire someone.
I heard they axed the old manager last week.