axis — English Dictionary

Noun

1. An imaginary line around which an object spins (an axis of rotation) or is symmetrically arranged (an axis of symmetry).

   Examples

   More examples (1)

   A doorknob of whatever roundish shape is effectively a continuum of levers, with the axis of the latching mechanism—known as the spindle—being the fulcrum about which the turning takes place.

   The Earth rotates once a day on its axis

2. A fixed one-dimensional figure, such as a line or arc, with an origin and orientation and such that its points are in one-to-one correspondence with a set of numbers; an axis forms part of the basis of a space or is used to position and locate data in a graph (a coordinate axis)

3. The second cervical vertebra of the spine

   Synonyms

   epistropheus

4. An imaginary, visualized plane separating two morphologically similar parts of an organism

5. A form of classification and descriptions of mental disorders or disabilities used in manuals such as the DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders)

6. The main stem or central part about which organs or plant parts such as branches are arranged

7. An alliance or coalition.

   Synonyms

   pactcompactleague

   Examples

   More examples (1)

   This Berlin-Madrid vertical line is not an obstacle but rather an axis around which can revolve all those European states with a will to collaboration and peace.

8. The centre of attention within a process (e.g. the axis of investigation)

   Usage

   • Figurative

Noun

1. A deer native to Asia, of species Axis axis.

   Synonyms

   chitalcheetalchital deerspotted deeraxis deer

   Related words

   Axis axis

Noun

1. a straight line through a body or figure that satisfies certain conditions

   Broader terms

   line

2. the main stem or central part about which plant organs or plant parts such as branches are arranged

   Broader terms

   stalkstem

3. a group of countries in special alliance

   Synonyms

   bloc

   Broader terms

   alliancecoalitionalignmentalinement

4. the 2nd cervical vertebra; serves as a pivot for turning the head

   Synonyms

   axis vertebra

   Broader terms

   cervical vertebraneck bone

5. the center around which something rotates

   Synonyms

   axis of rotation

   Broader terms

   mechanism