axis
nounnounattested in dialogue
- United Kingdom//ˈæksɪs//
- Australia//ˈæksɪs//
- Australia//ˈæksəs//
- New Zealand//ˈɛksəs//
An imaginary line around which an object spins (an axis of rotation) or is symmetrically arranged (an axis of symmetry).
noun
- 1
An imaginary line around which an object spins (an axis of rotation) or is symmetrically arranged (an axis of symmetry).
A doorknob of whatever roundish shape is effectively a continuum of levers, with the axis of the latching mechanism—known as the spindle—being the fulcrum about which the turning takes place.
The Earth rotates once a day on its axis
- 2
A fixed one-dimensional figure, such as a line or arc, with an origin and orientation and such that its points are in one-to-one correspondence with a set of numbers; an axis forms part of the basis of a space or is used to position and locate data in a graph (a coordinate axis)
- 3
The second cervical vertebra of the spine
- 4
An imaginary, visualized plane separating two morphologically similar parts of an organism
- 5
A form of classification and descriptions of mental disorders or disabilities used in manuals such as the DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders)
- 6
The main stem or central part about which organs or plant parts such as branches are arranged
- 7
An alliance or coalition.
This Berlin-Madrid vertical line is not an obstacle but rather an axis around which can revolve all those European states with a will to collaboration and peace.
- 8
figurativeThe centre of attention within a process (e.g. the axis of investigation)
Etymology
Etymology tree Proto-Indo-European *h₂eǵ-? Proto-Indo-European *-os Proto-Indo-European *h₂eḱs-der. Proto-Italic *aksis Latin axisbor. English axis Borrowed from Latin axis (“axle, axis”) in the 16th century. Via Latin cognate with ala, aisle, atelier. Via Proto-Indo-European *h₂eḱs- cognate with inherited English axle and borrowed axo-, axon.
noun
- 1
A deer native to Asia, of species Axis axis.
Etymology
From Latin, name of an Indian animal mentioned by the Roman senator Pliny.
Forms
- plural
- axes, axiis, axises
axis · An imaginary line around which an object spins (an axis of rotation) or is symmetrically arranged (an axis of symmetry).
Axis · The alliance (in effect before and during World War II) of…Axl · A male given name.ay · Ah! alas! Expressing anger, alarm, frustration, pain, etc.