Dictionary

battle–ax

noun bat·tle–ax \ˈba-t^əl-ˌaks\

: an ax with a large blade that was used as a weapon in the past

: an unpleasant older woman who speaks in an angry way and tries to control others

Full Definition of BATTLE-AX

: a broadax formerly used as a weapon of war

: a usually older woman who is sharp-tongued, domineering, or combative

See battle–ax defined for English-language learners

See battle-ax defined for kids

bat·tle–ax or bat·tle–axe \ˈba-t^əl-ˌaks\

14th century

Synonyms: battle-ax (or battle-axe), dragon lady, fury, harpy, harridan, termagant, virago, vixen

BATTLE-AX Defined for Kids

noun bat·tle–ax \ˈba-t^əl-ˌaks\

: an ax with a broad blade formerly used as a weapon

bat·tle–ax or bat·tle–axe \ˈba-t^əl-ˌaks\

Next Word in the Dictionary: battle billPrevious Word in the Dictionary: battle All Words Near: battle-ax

What made you want to look up battle-ax? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Put-downs with flair

How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.

Test your vocab with our fun, fast game

Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears