axial

adjective

ax·​i·​al ˈak-sē-əl 

1

: of, relating to, or having the characteristics of an axis

2

a

: situated around, in the direction of, on, or along an axis

b

: extending in a direction essentially perpendicular to the plane of a cyclic structure (as of cyclohexane)

axial hydrogens

compare equatorial

axiality

ˌak-sē-ˈa-lə-tē 

noun

axially

ˈak-sē-ə-lē 

adverb

Examples of axial in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Uranus, the seventh planet from the sun, is unique for its extreme axial tilt, with its equator and orbit making nearly at a right angle — likely the result of a collision with an Earth-size object long ago. —Sharmila Kuthunur, Space.com, 1 Apr. 2025

Because the moon has a very small axial tilt—just 1.5 degrees—the floors of many polar craters remain in perpetual darkness. —IEEE Spectrum, 9 July 2019

Similarities between Earth and Mars also include a roughly 24-hour day, an axial tilt that creates distinct seasons, weather patterns, and a rocky composition. —Samantha Mathewson, Space.com, 6 Mar. 2025

All of these are associated with axial spondyloarthritis. —Brittany Risher, SELF, 8 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

axis + -al entry 1

First Known Use

circa 1847, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing axial

• axial skeleton

Rhymes for axial

• abaxial
• adaxial
• biaxial
• coaxial
• paraxial
• triaxial
• epitaxial
• multiaxial
• uniaxial

Kids Definition

axial

adjective

ax·​i·​al ˈak-sē-əl 

1

: of, relating to, or having the characteristics of an axis

2

: situated around, in the direction of, on, or along an axis

axial flowers

axially

-sē-ə-lē 

adverb

Medical Definition

axial

adjective

ax·​i·​al ˈak-sē-əl 

1

: of, relating to, or having the characteristics of an axis

2

a

: situated around, in the direction of, on, or along an axis

b

: extending in a direction essentially perpendicular to the plane of a cyclic structure (as of cyclohexane)

axial hydrogens

compare equatorial