ice ax

noun

1. a mountaineering tool combining an adzlike blade and a pick on the head of a long wooden handle, with a spike on the end, used for cutting into ice and for support on icy surfaces.

Word History and Origins

Origin of ice ax¹

First recorded in 1810–20

Example Sentences

He remembers using ice axes to climb in the winter when he was only 15.

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Those who do climb are normally veterans equipped with crampons, ice axes, helmets, ropes and a thorough knowledge of the route, said Dave Miller, a professional mountain guide who has summited Whitney 80 times.

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In the winter, only a small number of serious climbers attempt the expedition and are typically armed with crampons, ice axes and avalanche safety training, he explained.

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Climbing down the final 400 in snowy conditions usually requires ropes, crampons and ice axes because a fall on slippery terrain that steep would be almost impossible to stop.

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Another, he said, is the industry stereotype of “white men holding ice axes high in the mountains.”

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