pickax

or pick·axe

[ pik-aks ]

noun

, plural pick·ax·es.

1. a pick, especially a mattock.

verb (used with object)

, pick·axed, pick·ax·ing.

1. to cut or clear away with a pickax.

verb (used without object)

, pick·axed, pick·ax·ing.

1. to use a pickax.

Word History and Origins

Origin of pickax¹

1275–1325; pick ² + ax; replacing Middle English picois < Middle French, Old French; akin to French pic pick ². See pique ¹

Example Sentences

If you want to make the game connection stronger, you can easily craft a pickax out of cardboard.

From Washington Post

"I should think you might guess," replied George quietly, while putting down his pickax and taking off his coat.

From Project Gutenberg

We got over the heavy floe-ice, to find ourselves confronted with jagged, rough ice, where we had to pickax our way.

From Project Gutenberg

Then, muttering to himself, he brought out pickax and spade and began his work.

From Project Gutenberg

I began to dig in the rock, yet was obliged to desist for want of a pickax, shovel, and wheel-barrow.

From Project Gutenberg

Jack and Alfonso were supplied with a pickax, a shovel and a basket.

From Project Gutenberg