Words / B2

AKS-is/ˈæksɪs/

An axis is a fixed reference line on a graph, or a line about which something rotates; also an alliance: x-axis; axis of rotation; the Axis in 1939–45. Plural axes /ˈæksiːz/. Label the axis with units. Mix-up: axis vs access / axe; Axis as a brand. Do not write axis for a single plotted point.

Meaning

A fixed reference line on a graph, or a line about which something rotates; also an alliance (the Axis in 1939–45).

Examples

• “Label the axis with units, the graph question said; a political axis still needs named parties.”
• “The Axis powers featured in the history source, which is the 1939–45 alliance sense.”

Good to know

the x- / y-axis; axis of rotation; the Axis powers. Plural: axes. Trap: access / axe. Maths, science, and history. A graph line, a line of rotation, or an alliance — specify.

Near in meaning

pivot, line

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