hatchet

UK: ˈhætʃɪt | US: ˈhætʃɪt

Definition

  1. n. a small, short-handled axe used for chopping or cutting

  2. vt. to cut or shape with a hatchet

Structure
hatch <to cut>et <diminutive suffix>hatch <to cut>et <diminutive suffix>
Etymology

The word hatchet traces back to the Frankish happja, a term for a cutting tool, which entered Old French as hache (axe). The diminutive suffix -et was added to signify a smaller version, yielding hachette (later anglicized to hatchet). This reflects the tool’s evolution from a full-sized axe to a compact, handheld version.

Examples

  1. He used a hatchet to split the kindling for the fire.

  2. The carpenter carefully hatcheted the wood into precise shapes.

  3. A rusty hatchet lay abandoned near the campsite.

  4. She swung the hatchet with surprising strength.

  5. The survival kit included a foldable hatchet for emergencies.