axle

noun

ax·​le ˈak-səl How to pronounce axle (audio)
1
a
: a pin or shaft on or with which a wheel or pair of wheels revolves
b(1)
: a fixed bar or beam with bearings at its ends on which wheels (as of a cart) revolve
(2)
: the spindle of such a beam
2
archaic : axis

Examples of axle in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Fred Antoon adapted the truck axle. — IEEE Spectrum, 15 June 2026 Troopers say drivers should have more weight placed before the axle, or closer to the vehicle in front of the trailer's wheels. — Brian Sherrod, CBS News, 9 June 2026 The rear axle is driven via a mechanical connection, which can be disconnected to improve fuel efficiency. — James Raia, Mercury News, 28 June 2026 Five search and rescue teams were sent out to Madison County, along with high-axle vehicles to assist with water rescues, per NBC News. — Escher Walcott, PEOPLE, 28 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for axle

Word History

Etymology

Middle English axil, probably independent use of axil- in axeltre, axiltre axletree

Note: This word effectively replaced rare Middle English axe "axle," descended from Old English eax—see axis.

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of axle was in the 14th century

Phrases Containing axle

Rhymes for axle

See All Rhymes for axle

Browse Nearby Words

axite
axle
axle bar
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Axle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/axle. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

axle

noun
ax·​le ˈak-səl How to pronounce axle (audio)
: a pin, pole, or bar on or with which a wheel revolves

More from Merriam-Webster on axle

Nglish: Translation of axle for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about axle

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