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 Zook Cabins, the A-Frame Studio is based on a quad-axle trailer and is a park model, intended for semi-permanent installation rather than regular towing. — New Atlas, 1 Nov. 2026

The rest of the car also received a thorough going-over, including a rebuilt front axle, repairs to address corrosion and electrical issues, and a new exhaust system. — Stephen Edelstein, The Drive, 31 Oct. 2026

In general, truck operators regularly adjust the position of trailer axles to distribute cargo weight and comply with road weight limits. — Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 20 Oct. 2026

Its boosted flat-six engine receives a power bump, and rear-axle steering is now standard, as are larger brakes with six-piston calipers up front. — Bradley Iger, Robb Report, 16 Oct. 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