English

Alternative forms

• axe to grind

Noun

ax to grind ‎(plural axes to grind)

1. (US) A proposition or point of view to advocate, especially motivated by self-interest
   • 1976 July 8, New Scientist, volume 71, page 77:

     The design has had a rather contentious journey through the various technical committees set up by the EEC to study the problem; individual member nations with particular axes to grind holding up the proceedings at regular intervals.

2. (US) a grudge

Derived terms

• have an ax to grind

Translations