axis

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun a straight line through a body or figure that satisfies certain conditions
  2. noun the main stem or central part about which plant organs or plant parts such as branches are arranged
  3. noun in World War II the alliance of Germany and Italy in 1936 which later included Japan and other nations

Etymology

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.

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