pickax
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈpɪk.æks/
KK: /ˈpɪkˌæks/
intransitive verb
Definition
To use a tool with a heavy metal head and a long handle for breaking up hard ground or rock.
Example
He decided to pickax the rocky soil to prepare the garden.
Tense Forms
Past: pickaxed
Past Participle: pickaxed
Conversation
Have you ever seen someone pickax in a movie?
Yeah, it always looks so intense!
I wonder how hard it is to actually pickax the ground.
I bet it's pretty tough, but kind of satisfying too!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
dig
excavate
break
Antonyms
fill
cover
seal
noun
Definition
A tool with a pointed end and a chisel edge, used for breaking up hard ground or cutting through roots.
Example
The miner used a pickax to break through the rocky soil.
Conversation
Do you think we should use a pickax to break up that hard soil in the garden?
Definitely! A pickax will make it much easier to dig.
I guess I should have brought my dad's old pickax from the shed.
transitive verb
Definition
To use a tool with a heavy metal head and a long handle for breaking up hard surfaces, such as rock or soil.
Example
He decided to pickax the ground to prepare for planting.
Tense Forms
Past: pickaxed
Past Participle: pickaxed
Conversation
Have you ever seen someone pickax into a mountain?
Yeah, I watched a video once; it looked really tough work!
I can't imagine having to pickax all day like that.
Root Explanation
Pickax → The word 'pickax' originates from Middle English 'pick' (meaning to pierce or break) and 'axe' (from Old English 'æx', meaning a tool for cutting). A pickax is a tool used for breaking or piercing hard surfaces, combining the actions of picking and cutting.
Memory Tip
Think of 'picking' to 'pierce' something and 'axing' to cut it — that's why a pickax is a tool for breaking hard surfaces.
Visually Confused Words
pika
pica