English Explanatory Dictionary

ax to grind

English dictionary entry

Meanings

noun
  1. A proposition or point of view to advocate, especially motivated by self-interest.
noun
  1. A grudge or grievance, with implications of confrontation.

Pronunciation

LL-Q1860 (eng)-Flame, not lame-have an axe to grind.wav

Word forms

ax to grind axes to grind axe to grind

Etymology

A reference to someone sharpening an axe with the intent to kill someone.

Related words

bone to pick

Derived words

have an ax to grind
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