axletree

American  

[ak-suhl-tree] / ˈæk səlˌtri /

noun

1. a bar, fixed crosswise under an animal-drawn vehicle, with a rounded spindle at each end upon which a wheel rotates.

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axletree British  

/ ˈæksəlˌtriː /

noun

1. a bar fixed across the underpart of a wagon or carriage that has rounded ends on which the wheels revolve

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Etymology

Origin of axletree

Middle English word dating back to 1250–1300; see origin at axle, tree

Example Sentences

These bars strengthened the axletree and resisted wear at the spindle.

From Artillery Through the Ages A Short Illustrated History of Cannon, Emphasizing Types Used in America by Manucy, Albert

He saw a greater Sun appear Than his bright throne, or burning axletree, could bear.

From In The Yule-Log Glow—Book 3 Christmas Poems from 'round the World by Morris, Harrison S. (Harrison Smith)

After an old cart or waggon has done its work and is broken up, the wooden axletree, which is very solid, is frequently used for the top bar of a stile.

From Wild Life in a Southern County by Jefferies, Richard

With the Ordinary carriage.—To shift a rear truck, handspikemen lift under the rear axletree.

From Ordnance Instructions for the United States Navy. 1866. Fourth edition. by United States. Navy Dept. Bureau of Ordnance

His carriage was overturned, and the axletree broken.

From The Village Notary by E?tv?s, J?zsef