axial

adjective

ax·​i·​al ˈak-sē-əl How to pronounce axial (audio)
1
: of, relating to, or having the characteristics of an axis
2
a
: situated around, in the direction of, on, or along an axis
b
: extending in a direction essentially perpendicular to the plane of a cyclic structure (as of cyclohexane)
axial hydrogens
compare equatorial
axiality noun
axially adverb

Examples of axial in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Uranus, the seventh planet from the sun, is unique for its extreme axial tilt, with its equator and orbit making nearly at a right angle — likely the result of a collision with an Earth-size object long ago. Sharmila Kuthunur, Space.com, 1 Apr. 2025 Because the moon has a very small axial tilt—just 1.5 degrees—the floors of many polar craters remain in perpetual darkness. IEEE Spectrum, 9 July 2019 Similarities between Earth and Mars also include a roughly 24-hour day, an axial tilt that creates distinct seasons, weather patterns, and a rocky composition. Samantha Mathewson, Space.com, 6 Mar. 2025 All of these are associated with axial spondyloarthritis. Brittany Risher, SELF, 8 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for axial

Word History

Etymology

axis + -al entry 1

First Known Use

circa 1847, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of axial was circa 1847

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Axial.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/axial. Accessed 12 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

axial

adjective
ax·​i·​al ˈak-sē-əl How to pronounce axial (audio)
1
: of, relating to, or having the characteristics of an axis
2
: situated around, in the direction of, on, or along an axis
axial flowers
axially adverb

Medical Definition

axial

adjective
ax·​i·​al ˈak-sē-əl How to pronounce axial (audio)
1
: of, relating to, or having the characteristics of an axis
2
a
: situated around, in the direction of, on, or along an axis
b
: extending in a direction essentially perpendicular to the plane of a cyclic structure (as of cyclohexane)
axial hydrogens
compare equatorial
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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