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

Instead, in order to protect their identities, their words are read aloud during re-enactments by powerhouse actresses such as Emma Thompson (who squeezes herself beneath an axle) and Kate Dickie (performing, as the nurse, on all fours on Kenmure Street itself). —Siddhant Adlakha, Variety, 1 Feb. 2026

Designed by Romania's Eco Tiny House, the Tiny Hogwarts is based on a double-axle trailer and has a length of 8 m (26 ft), which is by no means large but a tad roomier than most European models. —New Atlas, 30 Jan. 2026

Another button shows the inner workings of the twin-turbo V-8 engine and electric front axle. —Tim Pitt, Robb Report, 28 Jan. 2026

Moving up to the Fieldmaster and Trialmaster trims adds an electronically locking differential on each of its solid axles. —Peter Nelson, Forbes.com, 28 Jan. 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