Axes

Axes is a heteronym; the plural of both axis and axe, and may thus be:

Axe

• An axe is a tool with a metal blade fastened to a handle at 90 degrees, commonly used to split wood.
• Colloquially, axe is a general name for an electric guitar or a wind instrument in popular music.
• Axe has other meanings not used in the plural.

Axis

• In mathematics, an axis is a straight line around which a geometric figure can be rotated. An axis of symmetry is a line with respect to which a body can be symmetrical. The term is also applied for the axis of a graph; the horizontal axis x-axis, the vertical y-axis and the z-axis is a possible third axis used for three-dimensional graphing.
• Axis (anatomy): In anatomy, the axis (C2) is the second cervical vertebra of the spine. Its articulation with the bone above, the atlas, allows rotation, and its articulation with the bone below (C3) allows a lesser degree of flexion, tilting and rotation.
• In politics, Axis (often capitalized) can also be used to denote an alliance or partnership between states. A historical example are the Axis Powers during World War II who where fought by the Allies. In 2002 George W. Bush popularized the term Axis of Evil.