helve

[ helv ]

noun

1. the handle of an ax, hatchet, hammer, or the like.

verb (used with object)

, helved, helv·ing.

1. to furnish with a helve.

helve

/ hɛlv /

noun

1. the handle of a hand tool such as an axe or pick

verb

1. tr to fit a helve to (a tool)

Other Words From

• helver noun
• un·helved adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of helve¹

before 900; Middle English; Old English h ( i ) elfe

Word History and Origins

Origin of helve¹

Old English hielfe; related to Old Saxon hèlvi, Old High German halb, Lithuanian kìlpa stirrup; see halter

Example Sentences

She searched his face with steady eyes, her hand on the ax-helve, in earnest effort to read his heart.

From Project Gutenberg

She disposed the ax to conceal it entirely beneath her long apron, her hand under the garment grasping the helve.

From Project Gutenberg

With the fall of the blow, and the shock of it running up the helve through arms and shoulders, they were completely awake.

From Project Gutenberg

He had taken but a few of these when the axe flew from the helve, narrowly missing the Professor's head.

From Project Gutenberg

His hands were playing with a pickaxe helve, as if he longed to have me under it.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• beam
• chimney
• cylinder
• duct
• rod
• tunnel