Hatchet: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used for light chopping tasks, small-scale wood splitting, or camping. Often associated with historical or primitive tools.

• He packed a hatchet in his camping gear to split firewood
• The archaeologist found an ancient hatchet near the excavation site

Used for heavier chopping tasks, such as cutting down trees or splitting large logs. Common in forestry and woodworking contexts.

• The lumberjack swung his axe to fell the tree
• She used an axe to split the firewood for the winter

Historically a Native American tool that can be used as a weapon or for chopping. Modernly also used in survival and tactical contexts. Can have a historical or cultural connotation.

• The soldier carried a tomahawk for survival purposes
• The museum displayed antique tomahawks in the Native American exhibit

Primarily used in a kitchen for cutting through meat and bones. Associated with butchery and cooking tasks.

• The chef used a cleaver to chop the chicken into pieces
• The butcher sharpened his cleaver before cutting the meat

This word is commonly used to describe a small axe with a short handle, typically used for chopping wood. It is often associated with practical household or outdoor tasks, such as splitting kindling for a fire.

• He used a hatchet to chop the log into smaller pieces.
• The scout packed a hatchet for their camping trip.

This term refers to any device or instrument used in combat or designed to inflict harm. It is appropriate in contexts involving defense, military, or violent confrontations, and generally carries a negative connotation.

• The museum had an exhibit showcasing medieval weapons.
• The suspect was arrested for carrying a concealed weapon.

This is a general term for any handheld device used to carry out a particular function, often referring to equipment used for making or repairing things. It is widely applicable in contexts like construction, gardening, and DIY projects.

• He grabbed a tool from the shed to fix the broken fence.
• A wrench is an essential tool for any mechanic.

This word is a general term for any device designed to perform a specific task, particularly one requiring precision or skill. It can be used in various fields like music, medicine, and engineering.

• The surgeon carefully chose the right instrument for the operation.
• She learned to play several musical instruments in her lifetime.