poleaxe
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: //ˈpoʊlˌæks//
KK: /ˈpoʊlˌæks/
noun
Definition
A type of weapon that has a long handle and combines features of an axe, hammer, and pike, often used in battle or for slaughtering animals.
Example
The knight wielded his poleaxe skillfully during the tournament.
Conversation
Have you ever seen a poleaxe in action?
No, I haven't! What is it exactly?
It's a long-handled weapon that combines an ax and a hammer.
That sounds pretty interesting! I’d love to see one used.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
halberd
axe
mace
Antonyms
shield
defense
protection
verb
Definition
To strike or kill someone using a type of weapon that has a long handle and a sharp head, similar to an axe.
Example
The knight used his poleaxe to defeat the enemy in battle.
Tense Forms
Past: poleaxed
Past Participle: poleaxed
Conversation
Did you see that video where the knight had to poleaxe his opponent to win?
Yeah, it was so intense! I can't believe how realistic it looked.
I wonder how they even train to poleaxe someone like that safely.
Root Explanation
Poleaxe → It is formed from "pole" (from Old English *pāl*, meaning a long, slender piece of wood) and "axe" (from Old English *æx*, meaning a cutting tool). The word "poleaxe" refers to a weapon that combines a long handle with an axe head, used for striking or cutting.
Memory Tip
Imagine a long piece of wood ('pole') with a sharp cutting tool ('axe') at the end — that's what a poleaxe is, a weapon designed for striking.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.