small axe crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! We're here to help you solve "small axe crossword clue" quickly and accurately. Below you'll find all the possible answers, complete with explanations, to get you unstuck and back to enjoying your puzzle.
Solutions for "small axe crossword clue" by Letter Count
7 Letters
HATCHET: A common tool, a small axe with a short handle, ideal for light chopping tasks. This is frequently the intended answer in crosswords.
HANDAXE: Referring to a small axe, often historically (like a stone age tool), or a compact modern version designed for single-handed use.
8 Letters
TOMAHAWK: A type of small, light axe, often associated with Native American cultures, sometimes used as a weapon or tool.
More About "small axe crossword clue"
The clue "small axe" often points directly to a HATCHET, which is its most common and universally understood meaning. A hatchet is distinguished by its size and single-hand operation, making it distinct from larger felling axes or mauls. Its compact nature makes it versatile for various tasks like kindling splitting, small pruning jobs, or camping.
Beyond the common hatchet, crosswords might delve into more specific or historical types of small axes. A HANDAXE, for instance, evokes images of prehistoric tools, while a TOMAHAWK carries cultural and historical connotations. Understanding these nuances can be key when facing a tricky puzzle, as the setter might be looking for a more obscure or precise term.
When you encounter this clue, consider the context of the puzzle, the number of letters, and any intersecting words. These elements will guide you to select the most appropriate "small axe" answer from the possibilities available.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always count the available spaces. For "small axe," knowing if you need a 7-letter word (HATCHET, HANDAXE) or an 8-letter word (TOMAHAWK) immediately narrows down your options.
- Consider Synonyms and Specific Types: While "small axe" broadly points to a hatchet, think if there are more specific types that fit the letter count or overall theme of the puzzle, such as a Handaxe for historical themes or Tomahawk for cultural ones.
- Look at Intersecting Clues: The letters from other solved clues that cross your "small axe" clue are your best friends. They can often provide the crucial confirmation for which specific answer is correct.
- Think About Common Crossword Traps: Sometimes, clues are deceptively simple. While HATCHET is straightforward, consider if the puzzle setter is aiming for a more niche answer like HANDAXE or TOMAHAWK to trip up solvers.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a "small axe" commonly called in crosswords?
In crosswords, a "small axe" is most frequently clued as a HATCHET, which is its most common definition. This compact tool with a short handle perfectly fits the description. Other possibilities, depending on the puzzle's specific context or difficulty, might include HANDAXE or TOMAHAWK.
How can I narrow down the answer for "small axe" in a crossword?
To pinpoint the correct answer, first look at the number of letters required. HATCHET and HANDAXE are both 7 letters, while TOMAHAWK is 8. Also, consider any intersecting letters from other clues, which can often confirm your choice. Sometimes, the clue's nuance might hint at a specific type, such as a historical 'HANDAXE' or a cultural 'TOMAHAWK'.
Are there other small cutting tools that might be clued as a "small axe"?
While less common than HATCHET, depending on the puzzle's difficulty or theme, other terms for small cutting tools could potentially appear. These might include CHOPPER (a small, heavy knife or cleaver that can serve an axe-like function) or BILLHOOK (a cutting tool used for pruning, which has a hooked blade). However, HATCHET remains the primary and most common answer for 'small axe'.