axle

noun

ax·​le ˈak-səl 

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

Designed by Tiny Timber Homes, the Kanuka is based on a triple-axle trailer and finished in metal cladding, with wooden accents. —New Atlas, 12 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 electric motor lives on one side of the axle and applies torque to a powered sun gear at the other side. —Jonathan M. Gitlin, ArsTechnica, 28 May 2026

The hybrid system is more refined than before, and the new rear e-axle gives Lexus dealers a better story to tell buyers cross-shopping an Audi A6, Genesis G80, Cadillac CT5, Acura TLX, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, BMW 5 Series, or BMW i5. —Karl Brauer, Forbes.com, 27 May 2026

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

Phrases Containing axle

• wheel and axle

Rhymes for axle

• docetaxel
• paclitaxel
• transaxle

Kids Definition

axle

noun

ax·​le ˈak-səl 

: a pin, pole, or bar on or with which a wheel revolves