helve

[ helv ]

noun

1. the handle of an ax, hatchet, hammer, or the like.

verb (used with object)

, helved, helv·ing.

1. to furnish with a helve.

helve

/ hɛlv /

noun

1. the handle of a hand tool such as an axe or pick

verb

1. tr to fit a helve to (a tool)

Other Words From

• helver noun
• un·helved adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of helve¹

before 900; Middle English; Old English h ( i ) elfe

Word History and Origins

Origin of helve¹

Old English hielfe; related to Old Saxon hèlvi, Old High German halb, Lithuanian kìlpa stirrup; see halter

Example Sentences

“Can a man not come back for an axe helve without finding his house a shambles?”

From Literature

It is wielded by a wooden helve or handle, so fixed in a socket or eye as to be in the same plane with the blade.

From Project Gutenberg

What are known as power hammers are those driven by belt and pulley; while those known as trip hammers have their helve lifted through the medium of revolving lugs or cams.

From Project Gutenberg

Just like an axehead on its helve Old Bennett sat and watched the gathering.

From Project Gutenberg

Fire wood was scattered about; here was an axe with a broken helve, there a rust-eaten shovel, and the whole place spoke of poverty.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• beam
• chimney
• cylinder
• duct
• rod
• tunnel