Pronunciation: [ˈaks] (IPA) 
The word "ax" is a common spelling variation of the word "axe". In American English, "ax" is the preferred spelling. The IPA phonetic transcription for "ax" is /æks/. The "a" in "ax" is pronounced as the "a" in "cat." The "x" is pronounced as "ks," just like in the word "fox." Although some English dictionaries allow for the use of "axe," many language guides recommend using "ax" instead, as it is a more simple and straightforward spelling.
Ax (noun): an ax is a sharp-edged tool with a handle, typically made of wood, and a heavy metal blade fixed at a right angle to it, used for chopping and splitting wood or for cutting down trees.
The ax is one of the oldest and most fundamental tools used by humans throughout history. It consists of a sturdy wooden handle, usually made of hickory or oak, which provides a firm grip for the user. Attached to one end of the handle is a sharp, crescent-shaped blade made of strong, durable metal such as steel. This blade is designed to efficiently cleave through wood or other materials with a swift, downward striking motion.
The primary purpose of an ax is related to forestry and is commonly employed for felling trees, cutting logs into smaller pieces, or splitting firewood. It is a versatile tool used across various industries, including construction, woodworking, and agriculture. In addition to its practical applications, the ax has also earned a prominent presence in mythologies, legends, and cultural symbolism, often embodying strength, power, or destruction.
When using an ax, it is crucial to ensure proper handling and safety measures, as a misaimed or uncontrolled swing can pose a serious risk of injury. Therefore, adequate training in ax usage is recommended to ensure one's own safety and the efficient execution of tasks involving this ancient tool.
Abbreviation for axis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "ax" (also spelled "axe") traces its origins back to Old English. The Old English term "aces" meant "a cutting tool" and is believed to have derived from Indo-European roots. The word evolved over time and gradually became "ax" in Middle English. This transformation is considered a regular phonetic change where the "s" at the end of a word turned into "x". The spelling "axe" remained in use in British English, while "ax" became more prevalent in American English.
