When it comes to spelling the name of the sharp-bladed chopping tool with a wooden handle, many writers find themselves hesitating between two options: is it “ax” or “axe”? This seemingly simple question has a surprisingly complex answer rooted in centuries of linguistic history, regional preferences, style guide specifications, and evolving usage patterns. While both spellings are correct, understanding when to use which variant can help you make more informed writing choices. This comprehensive guide explores the differences, origins, and current usage patterns of these two spelling variations.
The Short Answer: Both Spellings Are Correct
Before diving into the details, let’s address the fundamental question: both “ax” and “axe” are correct spellings of the same word. They refer to the same tool, have identical pronunciation, and can be used interchangeably in most contexts. However, there are some regional preferences and style conventions that might influence which spelling you should choose.
According to Grammarly, “Ax and axe are different spellings of the same word. There is no difference in meaning or pronunciation.” This applies whether you’re using the word as a noun to describe the tool itself or as a verb to describe the action of cutting or removing something.
Regional Preferences: American vs. British English
The most significant factor influencing the choice between “ax” and “axe” is regional language variation:
- British English: The spelling “axe” is strongly preferred in the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and other countries where British English conventions are followed.
- American English: The situation in the United States is more complicated. Both “ax” and “axe” are used, though some style guides recommend “ax” as the preferred American spelling.
As explained by Microsoft 365, “In the case of ‘axe’ versus ‘ax,’ ‘axe’ is the preferred British spelling, while ‘ax’ is technically the preferred American spelling. However, ‘axe’ is still widely used in the United States and is still a correct way to spell the word.”
The following table summarizes the regional preferences:
| Region | Preferred Spelling | Alternative Spelling |
|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom | axe | rarely ax |
| Canada | axe | rarely ax |
| Australia | axe | rarely ax |
| New Zealand | axe | rarely ax |
| United States | both ax and axe | neither is incorrect |
The Historical Context: Etymology and Evolution
The story of “ax” versus “axe” has deep historical roots that help explain the current spelling variations.
Etymology: Ancient Origins
According to Merriam-Webster’s Etymology section, the word comes from “Middle English, from Old English æcs; akin to Old High German ackus ax, Latin ascia, Greek axinē.” The tool itself has been used by humans for thousands of years, with archaeological evidence of stone axes dating back to prehistoric times.
Wikipedia notes that “hand axes, of stone, and used without handles (hafts) were the first axes. They had knapped (chipped) cutting edges of flint or other stone,” with early examples dating back as far as 1.6 million years ago.
The Webster vs. Johnson Divide
The modern spelling debate has its roots in a disagreement between two influential dictionary makers:
As Merriam-Webster explains, “If Noah Webster had had his way, the spelling divide would have been as it is with color and colour, theater and theatre, and draft and draught: he defined ax in his 1828 An American Dictionary of the English Language and included the note ‘improperly written as axe.'”
This position by Webster directly contradicted Samuel Johnson, whose 1755 A Dictionary of the English Language included only the “axe” spelling. Webster preferred spellings that more closely reflected pronunciation and were supported by etymology. From his perspective, “ax” had both advantages: the “e” in “axe” is silent, and the word’s ancient forms (Old English æcs, Old High German ackus, Latin ascia, Greek axinē) didn’t make a strong case for including the final “e.”
Despite Webster’s efforts to standardize American spelling with the shorter “ax” form, the “axe” spelling has remained common in both American and British English.
Current Usage Patterns
While regional patterns exist, actual usage has fluctuated over time. Let’s look at the current trends:
Google Ngram Data
Google’s Ngram Viewer, which tracks word usage in published books over time, shows some interesting patterns:
- In British English publications, “axe” has been consistently dominant.
- In American English, the pattern is more complex. While “ax” saw increased usage in the late 20th century, “axe” has regained ground in recent decades.
Merriam-Webster notes that “Ax was going strong in the 1980s and 1990s, but in 1993 the movie So I Married an Axe Murderer featured the longer variant in its title. And in 2002, Unilever started selling Axe body spray in the US.” These cultural factors may have influenced the revival of the “axe” spelling in American usage.
Style Guide Recommendations
Different style guides have their own preferences:
| Style Guide | Preferred Spelling | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| AP Stylebook | ax | Widely used in journalism |
| Chicago Manual of Style | ax | Following Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary |
| Oxford Style Guide | axe | Standard in British publications |
| The New York Times | ax | Consistent with other major American publications |
| Time Magazine | ax | Follows AP style |
According to The Word Counter, “The American Heritage Dictionary appears to support GMEU by listing ‘axe or ax,’ although The Associated Press Stylebook insists that ‘ax’ is the proper spelling, not ‘axe.’ The Chicago Manual of Style also agrees with AP, as it utilizes Webster’s Third New International Dictionary (aka Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary) for all spelling rules.”
Despite these style guide recommendations, it’s important to note that Quillbot states, “Axe is correct in American English, and is actually the more common spelling. However, some style guides require that it be spelled ax, so it is important to check.”
Compound Words and Derivatives
The ax/axe distinction extends to compound words and related terms:
| American Spelling | British Spelling |
|---|---|
| ax | axe |
| pickax | pickaxe |
| poleax | poleaxe |
| broadax | broadaxe |
| battleax | battleaxe |
Grammarist notes that “The distinction extends to compounds involving ax and axe. For instance, Americans often use pickax and broadax, while English speakers elsewhere use pickaxe and broadaxe.”
Beyond the Chopping Tool: Other Meanings
The ax/axe word has evolved to include several meanings beyond the literal tool:
The Verb Form
As a verb, “ax” or “axe” means to cut down, remove, or eliminate something, often in a sudden or dramatic way:
- The company axed 300 jobs in the latest round of layoffs.
- The network axed the show after just one season.
Figurative Expressions
Several common expressions use “ax” or “axe”:
- To have an ax to grind: To have a personal interest or bias related to something; a hidden motive.
- To get the ax: To be dismissed or terminated from employment.
- To take an ax to something: To drastically reduce or eliminate something.
Musical Instruments
In slang usage, according to Grammarly, “Musical instruments, such as guitars and saxophones, are also axes.” This usage is particularly common in jazz and rock music contexts, where musicians might refer to their instrument as their “ax” or “axe.”
Consistency Is Key
Whatever spelling you choose, consistency is the most important principle. As Quillbot advises, “Don’t switch between ax and axe. Choose one and stick to it.”
If you’re writing for a publication, academic institution, or organization that has a style guide, you should follow their preference. If you’re writing for yourself, you can choose either spelling based on your region or personal preference.
Interesting Facts About Axes Throughout History
Beyond the spelling debate, axes have a rich history worth exploring:
- Axes are among the oldest tools used by humans, with stone hand axes dating back millions of years.
- The development of metal axes in the Bronze and Iron Ages represented major technological advances.
- Ceremonial and battle axes played important roles in many ancient cultures.
- The double-headed ax (labrys) was an important religious symbol in Minoan Crete.
- Viking battleaxes were feared weapons that could split shields and armor.
- The ax is featured on the coat of arms of several countries and regions.
Comparison With Other American/British Spelling Differences
The ax/axe distinction is part of a broader pattern of spelling differences between American and British English. Here are some other common examples:
| American Spelling | British Spelling |
|---|---|
| color | colour |
| theater | theatre |
| center | centre |
| program | programme |
| dialog | dialogue |
| traveled | travelled |
| gray | grey |
| ax | axe |
Unlike some of these other examples, where American publications strongly prefer the American spelling, the case of “ax” versus “axe” is less clear-cut, with “axe” remaining common in American usage despite style guide recommendations for “ax.”
FAQ About “Ax” vs. “Axe”
Is “ax” or “axe” the correct spelling?
Both spellings are correct. “Axe” is standard in British English and most Commonwealth countries, while both “ax” and “axe” are used in American English. Some American style guides recommend “ax,” but both forms are widely accepted.
Why do we have two different spellings?
The dual spelling dates back to a disagreement between dictionary-makers Noah Webster (who preferred “ax”) and Samuel Johnson (who used “axe”). Webster’s efforts to simplify American spelling led to many spelling differences between American and British English, but in this case, both spellings have persisted in American usage.
Do both spellings have the same meaning?
Yes, “ax” and “axe” have identical meanings and refer to the same tool—a heavy bladed head attached to a handle used for chopping wood. They’re also both used in the same figurative expressions and as verbs meaning to cut or eliminate.
Which spelling should I use?
If you’re following a specific style guide (like AP or Chicago), use their recommended spelling. If you’re writing for a British audience, use “axe.” For an American audience, either is acceptable, though some publishers prefer “ax.” Most importantly, be consistent within a single document.
Are there any contexts where one spelling is clearly better?
When referring to the brand name “Axe” (the body spray product), you should always use that spelling. Similarly, when citing titles that use a particular spelling (like the movie “So I Married an Axe Murderer”), you should maintain the original spelling.
Conclusion: Choose Your Spelling and Stick With It
In the debate between “ax” and “axe,” there’s no definitively wrong answer. Both spellings are correct, with usage varying by region, style guide, and personal preference.
The most important principle is consistency—choose one spelling and use it throughout your writing. If you’re writing for a publication or organization with a style guide, follow their recommendation. Otherwise, you’re free to choose the spelling that feels right to you.
Despite Noah Webster’s efforts to eliminate what he saw as the unnecessary “e” in “axe,” both spellings have endured for centuries and will likely continue to coexist in the future. This small variation serves as a reminder of the rich complexity and flexibility of the English language, where regional differences and historical influences continue to shape how we write.
