Definition

A small tool with a sharp blade used for chopping or cutting, typically held in one hand.

Example

He used a hatchet to chop the wood for the fire.

Conversation

I found this old hatchet in my dad's shed yesterday.

That's cool! Do you plan to use it for camping or something?

Yeah, I think it would be handy for chopping wood.

Definitely! Just make sure to be careful with that hatchet.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hatchet originates from Middle English 'hacchette', which is a diminutive form of 'hache' (meaning axe) from Old French 'hache', derived from the Frankish '*hakka' (meaning to chop). The word 'hatchet' refers to a small axe used for chopping.

Memory Tip

Think of a small 'axe' ('hache') used for 'chopping' — that's what a hatchet is.

Visually Confused Words