ax; axe
noun
1
a musical instrument, especially an electric guitar. Originally used in jazz circles for any instrument, particularly a saxophone or trumpet, instruments on which 'chops' (musical figures) are played; surely 'axe' was coined as a pun. The word itself suggests a chopper, a tool that you can carry over your shoulder – to many jazz and, subsequently, rock musicians, their instrument is exactly that US, 1955.
2
any sharp-edged weapon US, 1950.
3
a knife used or intended for use as a weapon US, 1972.
4
dismissal from employment. Usually heard in the phrases 'get the axe' or 'give the axe' US, 1883.
5
in a gambling operation, the house's cut of the bets US, 1974.
6
the lip of a wave US, 1991.► get the axein surfing, to be knocked off your board by a wave US, 1957