axis
axis Lexical Profile
axis Game Scores & Validity
• noun
An imaginary straight line about which a body or geometric figure rotates, or around which it is symmetrically arranged.
"The Earth completes one full rotation on its axis approximately every twenty-four hours."
A fixed reference line of a coordinate system used to measure distances or plot points on a graph.
"Please plot the time intervals along the horizontal axis and the temperature readings along the vertical axis."
An agreement, alliance, or coalition between two or more nations or political entities to coordinate policy and action.
"The diplomatic treaty established a new economic axis between the two neighboring countries."
The second cervical vertebra of the spine, which features a toothlike projection that serves as a pivot for the rotation of the atlas and the head.
"The radiologist carefully examined the patient's atlas and axis to rule out an upper cervical spine fracture."
A medium-sized deer (Axis axis) native to the forests and grasslands of the Indian subcontinent, characterized by a reddish-fawn coat marked with white spots throughout its life.
"A herd of spotted axis grazed quietly along the shaded edge of the forest reserve."
Word Nuance & Usage
The plural of 'axis' is 'axes' (pronounced /ˈæk.siːz/), which is spelled identically to the plural of 'ax' or 'axe' (pronounced /ˈæk.sɪz/), making it the only English word whose plural form is shared by two distinct singular nouns.
• Rhymes for axis
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed directly from Latin 'axis', meaning an axle, pivot, or the Earth's axis, ultimately tracing back to the Proto-Indo-European root '*aks-'.