axis

axis, axle

noun ak-SEES Rare

Origin: Latin axis 'axle, pivot'

Usage Note

Axis in French refers to a geometric or conceptual axis, such as the x-axis (axe des abscisses) in mathematics, or a strategic axis of development in urban planning. Note that the more common everyday spelling in French is axe (masculine); axis is a technical or anatomical variant, notably the second cervical vertebra. Learners will more often encounter axe.

Examples

"L'axis est la deuxième vertèbre cervicale."

Natural Translation

The axis is the second cervical vertebra.

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