axe
UK: æks | US: æks
n. a tool with a heavy metal blade mounted at right angles to a handle, used for chopping or splitting wood
vt. to cut down or remove abruptly or forcefully
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The word "axe" traces back to Old English æx, derived from Proto-Germanic akusī, which is linked to the Proto-Indo-European root h₂egʷs- (meaning "edge" or "sharp"). This root also gave rise to similar words in other Germanic languages (e.g., German Axt, Dutch bijl). The spelling and pronunciation have remained remarkably stable over centuries, reflecting the tool's enduring functional design.
He used an axe to chop firewood for the winter.
The company decided to axe several underperforming projects.
The ancient warrior wielded a bronze axe in battle.
She swung the axe with precision, splitting the log in one strike.
The mayor faced criticism after proposing to axe funding for public libraries.