(~s, axing, ~d)
Note: in AM, use 'ax'
1.
An ~ is a tool used for cutting wood. It consists of a heavy metal blade which is sharp at one edge and attached by its other edge to the end of a long handle.
N-COUNT
2.
If someone’s job or something such as a public service or a television programme is ~d, it is ended suddenly and without discussion.
Community projects are being ~d by hard-pressed social services departments.
= cut
VERB: usu passive, be V-ed
3.
If a person or institution is facing the ~, that person is likely to lose their job or that institution is likely to be closed, usually in order to save money. (JOURNALISM)
N-SING: the N
4.
If someone has an ~ to grind, they are doing something for selfish reasons. (INFORMAL)
He seems like a decent bloke and I’ve got no ~ to grind with him.
PHRASE: V inflects disapproval