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Definition of hatchet

hatchet

/ˈhætʃ.ɪt/
hatch · et
Plural:hatchets
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hatchet Lexical Profile

hatchet Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A small, short-handled axe designed to be used with one hand.

Example

"The experienced camper easily split the kindling into thin pieces using a sharp hatchet."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for hatchet

Word Nuance & Usage

While often used interchangeably with 'axe', a hatchet is specifically designed with a short handle for one-handed use, and typically features a hammerhead opposite the blade.

• Rhymes for hatchet

• Nearby Words

hatcheck
hatcher
hatchery
hatchet
hatchetfish
hatchetman
hatching

Word Origin & Etymology

Middle English: from Old French 'hachete', a diminutive of 'hache' meaning 'axe', ultimately of Germanic origin.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Hatchet. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/hatchet
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