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 Decathlon Tiny Homes, the Betty is based on a triple-axle trailer. —Adam Williams march 01, New Atlas, 1 Mar. 2026

Many engines, axles and transmissions for the company's vehicles are produced and imported from Germany. —Charles Singh, USA Today, 26 Feb. 2026

Every trip subjects frames, axles, and brake systems to dynamic forces and shifting loads. —Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 20 Feb. 2026

Each of the four-axle transporters and launch vehicles carries five rocket tubes. —Brad Lendon, CNN Money, 19 Feb. 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