pickaxe

/ ˈpɪkˌæks /

noun

1. a large pick or mattock

verb

1. to use a pickaxe on (earth, rocks, etc)

Word History and Origins

Origin of pickaxe¹

C15: from earlier pikois (but influenced also by axe ), from Old French picois, from pic pick ²; compare also pique ¹

Example Sentences

An artist in New Mexico has spent decades chiseling out fantastical caves from the mountains, one pickaxe swing at a time.

From The Daily Beast

The mention of “dig” is as likely to make us think of pickaxe as of spade.

From Project Gutenberg

This light apparently disturbed the thieves, for they departed with their burden and the pickaxe and retraced their steps.

From Project Gutenberg

These evidently had not assisted the gang to any great extent, as they found it necessary to use a heavy pickaxe.

From Project Gutenberg

Tha oftin go to sleep standing, and sum times pitch over, and when tha dew, tha enter the ground like a pickaxe.

From Project Gutenberg

The accompanying engraving is a representation of the old sexton, with his spade, pickaxe, and other emblems of office.

From Project Gutenberg