# axes

/ˈækˌsiz/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/axes
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. chopping tools

noun · CEFR A2

more than one axe; tools used for cutting wood or trees.

For teachers: the plural form of 'axe' (or 'ax'), denoting multiple tools designed for hewing or chopping wood.

- The woodcutters sharpened their axes before heading into the forest.
- Archaeologists discovered several bronze axes at the site, suggesting the settlement had advanced metalworking capabilities for the period.

Usage: This is the plural of the noun 'axe'.

### 2. lines of reference

noun · CEFR B2 · Technical

more than one axis; the lines on a graph or the imaginary lines objects spin around.

For teachers: the plural form of 'axis', referring to fixed lines for the measurement of coordinates or the central lines about which a body rotates.

- You need to label both the horizontal and vertical axes on your graph.
- The celestial bodies rotate on their respective axes at varying speeds, which determines the length of a day on each planet.

Usage: Pronounced /'æksiːz/ (ak-seez), unlike the tool plural which is /'æksɪz/.

## Examples

- The circle looks the same on both sides of its axes.
- Engineers check the vertical axes of the bridge to ensure it stands straight.
- In three-dimensional geometry, the x, y, and z axes define the position of every point in space.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.