hatchet

noun

hatch·​et ˈha-chət 

1

: a short-handled ax often with a hammerhead to be used with one hand

2

: tomahawk

Examples of hatchet in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Teams competed driving nails; in XL Pong, an oversized, outdoor version of beer pong; and hatchet throwing. —Paul Bersebach, Oc Register, 6 Mar. 2026

Over the past year, ICE has been responsible for many of the worst excesses of this administration, taking a hatchet to due process and other civil protections, and visiting violence upon our communities. —Kica Matos, Hartford Courant, 1 Mar. 2026

In February 2024, the actor posted a photo of himself holding a hatchet with pink tape wrapped around the hilt, suggesting some kind of motion-capture gig. —Nick Romano, Entertainment Weekly, 27 Feb. 2026

Grace relies on limited supplies and careful enemy analysis, while Leon engages in action-heavy sequences using firearms and his trusty hatchet. —Arushi Jacob, Variety, 27 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English hachet, from Anglo-French hachette, diminutive of hache battle-ax — more at hash

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing hatchet

• bury the hatchet
• hatchet face
• hatchet job
• hatchet man
• hatchet work

Rhymes for hatchet

• ratchet

Kids Definition

hatchet

noun

hatch·​et ˈhach-ət 

: a small ax with a short handle

Etymology

Middle English hachet "small ax, hatchet," from early French hachette, literally, "small battle-ax," from hache "battle-ax"; of Germanic origin — related to hash entry 1, hatch entry 4

Medical Definition

hatchet

noun

hatch·​et ˈhach-ət 

: a dental excavator