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axletree

axletree

9.9
A fixed bar under a cart with ends that let the wheels turn
  • noun
  • /ˈæksəlˌtri/
  • Archaic
translation icon : eje
  • Old carriages often had a sturdy wooden axletree between the wheels.

Examples

  • The front axletree of the wagon snapped under the heavy load.

  • A blacksmith was hired to repair the damaged axletree on the cart.

  • The axletree is broken.

  • Look at that axletree!

  • A blacksmith was hired to repair the damaged axletree on the cart.

  • Old carriages often had a sturdy wooden axletree between the wheels.

  • The front axletree of the wagon snapped under the heavy load.

Synonyms

axle
vsaxletree
  • Specialized
33 3.5

A bar that a wheel turns on, like in a car or bicycle

is the fixed carriage form with projecting spindles rather than a generic rotating shaft
axle bar
vsaxletree
  • Specialized
7.9

A strong metal rod that holds a vehicle's wheels

is the fixed carriage form with projecting spindles rather than a simple metal bar

Surface Forms

axletree singular
axletrees plural

Morphology

axletree = axle + tree (semi-transparent) = axle + tree

The compound is historically axle + tree (beam), so the structure is clear, but the sense of 'tree' meaning 'beam/shaft' is archaic and may mislead learners who know only the modern 'tree' (plant).

Etymology

Axletree comes from the two parts axle and tree, where tree once meant a 'wooden pole' or post. So an axletree is the fixed wooden bar that the wheels of a cart turn on.