Tomahawk: meaning, definitions and examples

A specific type of axe used by Native American tribes, often with cultural and historical significance. It can be used as a weapon or a tool.

• The museum displayed an ancient tomahawk used by indigenous tribes.
• During reenactments, the actors used tomahawks to demonstrate traditional combat techniques.

A smaller version of an axe, often used for light chopping tasks or in camping. It is more portable and can also be used metaphorically to mean settling disputes ('to bury the hatchet').

• He carried a hatchet in his backpack for their camping trip.
• They decided to bury the hatchet and end their feud.

General tool used for chopping wood or sometimes in combat settings. It does not carry historical or cultural connotations.

• He used an axe to chop down the tree.
• The firefighter used an axe to break down the door.

Similar to a tomahawk, but specifically used in historical or combat contexts. It implies the weapon was used in battles or warfare.

• The warrior wielded a war hatchet during the battle.
• In historical texts, they described the use of war hatchets in various conflicts.