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

Two of the motors are positioned on the front axle (which gives the car all-wheel drive) and the other is integrated into the transmission and acts as a starter generator. —Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 11 Dec. 2024

In Sport mode, the springs get stiffer and the active all-wheel drive sends more power to the rear axle and limits how much will go to the front. —Kristin Shaw, Popular Science, 11 Dec. 2024

Masculinity is further showcased via the pickup’s two trim levels, the 2X and 3X. The 2X, not surprisingly, has two electric motors — one on each front and rear axle. —James Raia, The Mercury News, 24 Nov. 2024

The Glynn County Police Department and the Camden County Dive Team then tried to pull the Lincoln from the water and in doing so, spun the car around and ripped the axle off the car, video provided by Sullivan shows. —Michael Dorgan, Fox News, 28 Nov. 2024

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

Kids Definition

axle

noun

ax·​le ˈak-səl 

: a pin, pole, or bar on or with which a wheel revolves