# axle

/ˈæksəɫ/ (US) · /ˈæksəl/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/axle
Updated: 2026-05-04

## Definition

the central bar or rod that connects a pair of wheels. It allows the wheels to turn so a vehicle can move.

For teachers: a central shaft for a rotating wheel or gear. On a vehicle, it may be fixed to the wheels, rotating with them, or fixed to the vehicle, with the wheels rotating around it.

## Examples

- The car cannot move because the front axle is broken.
- The heavy truck was forced to stop after the rear axle snapped under the weight of the cargo.
- Engineers must calculate the maximum load each axle can support to prevent structural failure during high-speed transit across uneven terrain.

## Usage notes

- Often used in technical or mechanical contexts; frequently paired with 'front' or 'rear' to specify location on a vehicle.

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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.